Pedda Amberpet, which is around 14 kilometres from the bustling Dilshuknagar in Hyderabad is home to idol makers from Kolkata. At a 60x100 feet shed filled with the smell of wet earth, clay Ganeshas ranging from 8 inches to 6 feet in height are at different stages of completion. “This year, the idol is unique in its decoration,” points out Sunkara Srinivas, the owner of the workshop. His words are borne out by bundles of glossy cloth and shimmering chumkis (sequins) kept in a corner, idols sporting a pagdi for headgear and a pattu panche (silk garment).
For a decade now, Srinivas has maintained the tradition of making eco-friendly Ganesha idols. “PoP (Plaster of Paris) idols might be cheaper, but sculpting an idol that is biodegradable will protect the environment and also inspire future generations to make it their choice,” he says, adding the artisans from Kolkata live in Hyderabad for four months to make clay Ganesha idols.
