Bengaluru Ganesha makers weigh eco-friendly shift amid tradition

Ganesha idol makers and retailers across Bengaluru are grappling with a critical decision as environmental concerns intensify around the annual festival season. The shift from plaster of Paris (PoP) to clay-based idols represents a significant departure from decades of established practice in the region's thriving sculpture industry.

Traditional clay idols, while biodegradable and environmentally benign, present substantial hurdles for manufacturers accustomed to PoP production. Clay requires specialised knowledge, extended drying periods, and careful handling to prevent damage during transport and storage—factors that increase production costs and reduce profit margins. Additionally, PoP idols have long dominated the market due to their durability, affordability, and the speed at which artisans can complete orders.

Retailers and merchants face equally complex pressures. Consumer demand remains split between eco-conscious buyers seeking sustainable options and price-sensitive customers who favour cheaper alternatives. The supply chain for quality clay has proven inconsistent, leaving traders uncertain about meeting seasonal demand with reliable inventory.

Governmental and environmental advocacy groups have intensified campaigns promoting clay idols ahead of the festival, citing water pollution from PoP dissolution during immersion rituals. However, without comprehensive support systems for artisans transitioning to clay-based production, many fear the shift could displace workers and reduce market competitiveness against neighbouring states with established clay idol traditions.

The coming weeks will prove decisive as Bengaluru's sculpture community navigates between environmental responsibility and economic viability during the crucial pre-festival period.