World · India Bureau
Balapur Ganesh's 21-kg laddu breaks auction record at ₹39 lakh
The traditional sweet offering from the famous Balapur Ganesh temple has shattered its previous auction record, with bidders competing fiercely for the 21-kilogram laddu. The ceremonial confection, which originated as an auction item nearly three decades ago, continues to draw significant interest from devotees and collectors.
LSN India ·
The iconic laddu from Hyderabad's Balapur Ganesh temple has set a new benchmark at auction, fetching ₹39 lakh during the latest sale. The 21-kilogram sweet delicacy, made according to traditional recipes, commanded substantial bidding as participants vied for ownership of the prized offering.
The tradition of auctioning the ceremonial laddu traces back to 1994, when the first such offering was sold for ₹450. Over the past three decades, the value of the auction has grown exponentially, reflecting both the cultural significance of the practice and increasing demand from devoted followers of the temple.
The Balapur Ganesh temple, one of South India's most prominent religious sites, has maintained this annual tradition as part of its festival celebrations. The laddu, prepared with meticulous care using traditional methods, has become synonymous with the temple's grand festivities and attracts bidders from across the region.
The proceeds from the auction typically support the temple's maintenance and charitable activities. This year's record-breaking bid underscores the enduring reverence for the institution and the willingness of the devotee community to participate in its religious and cultural endeavors.