Chitar Oli's young sculptors shaping Bappa with devotion

Time of India

13-07-2025

Nagpur: With
just over 45 days away, Chitar Oli, the hub of idol-makers, is already alive with the rhythm of chisels, the scent of wet clay, and the silent devotion of artisans. But this year, the spotlight isn't just on the idols, it's on the young hands shaping them.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Across these age-old workshops, a new generation of sculptors is stepping into their fathers' shoes, not out of compulsion, but out of passion. They have chosen clay over keyboards, tradition over trends.
"My brother is an engineer, but I couldn't leave this behind. I grew up watching my father breathe life into Ganesh idols. This isn't just work, it's who I am," says a young sculptor, carefully smoothing Bappa's trunk with a wet sponge.
Divyang Ajaykar, another young murtikar, echoes this emotional bond: "My father started this in Mumbai before moving here. For us, murti-making isn't business. It's bhakti. Now, this work is my worship."
What's heartening is how these young artisans are also adapting. This year, more and more devotees are asking for eco-friendly idols, especially those made with shadu clay. "There's a clear preference for aesthetics that feel soft, serene, and soulful — light pastel colours, minimal decorations, and calm facial expressions.
People don't want glitter and loud hues anymore," says a senior artisan.
This evolving taste reflects a deeper cultural shift. "Post-Covid, people want idols that radiate peace. They're choosing simplicity over grandeur," says another sculptor. The aesthetic now leans toward idols that look divine, delicate tilaks, folded palms, soft smiles, and eco-safe materials.
Mandals, too, are responding to this change.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
While many are still finalizing their themes, others have already placed orders. Most of them are opting for compact idols that are light to carry and easy to immerse. Natural colours, biodegradable decorations, and water-soluble paints are in demand when it comes to idols for homes too.
"We come here every year as a family to choose our Bappa," says a devotee, Sujata Deshmukh, browsing through rows of small clay idols.
"We always go for shadu idols. It feels right natural, sacred." Ramesh Gokhale, who booked his idol weeks in advance, says, "We always look for an idol that has a calm, smiling face. You can feel the devotion in the details in the idols."
Ved Jagtap, who came with his father, shares his excitement. "I wanted a peach and white Ganpati with a soft smile and we found exactly what I imagined!" he says.
"We make sure the clay is pure, the paints are chemical-free, and even the accessories are kept simple," shares an artisan mixing natural dyes.
"Earlier, it was about standing out. Now, it's about staying grounded."
After the pandemic lull, there's cautious optimism in the air. "We aren't back to full strength yet, but the orders are increasing. The joy is coming back," says an artisan.
"When I work, I feel my father's presence in every curve I shape. This is his blessing. This is my offering," says a young sculptor.