High demand for taller idols this Vinayaka Chavithi in Vijayawada
Idol makers say the change is not just about size — it's about prestige, competition, and the influence of Hyderabad's massive Ganesh festivities, which are now inspiring the city's organisers to think big.
"Hyderabad's celebrations are nothing short of spectacular. After seeing the videos of mammoth idols and lavish pandals there, our organisers want the same level of grandeur," said Kodali Rama Rao, a Ganesh idol maker in Vijayawada.
The city's expanding suburbs and the real estate boom in Amaravati have added fuel to the festive fire. New residential colonies and commercial hubs are hosting large-scale events, each trying to outshine the other. "Amaravati's development has brought in a new energy. People want celebrations that reflect the city's growing stature. Land values in our area have increased significantly after the completion of Vijayawada west bypass," said Santosh G, president of Bala Ganesh Utsav Committee in Jakkampudi area of the city.
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Idol makers have also hiked the prices by 30-40% compared to last year, driven by higher costs for materials and the intricate detailing required for large idols. Still, the demand remains high, with workshops operating round-the-clock to complete the orders on time. "We witnessed poor sales after Covid-19. Nearly 30% of our idols remained unsold in 2023. But the trend has completely changed this year. The cost of idols have increased significantly due to spike in the prices of PoP and acrylic colours.
Despite the higher prices, people are coming forward to buy big and tall idols. We have also increased our manpower to complete the works before the festival," said S Prabhakar, a craftsman who supervises a idol-making team in Nunna Mango market.
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