Pune, August 1, 2013: For this year’s Ganeshotsav, sculptors are presenting idols inspired by the deceased Shiv Sena supremo; claim these are flying off the shelves

That Puneites celebrate Ganeshotsav every year with a variety of interesting social, cultural or political themes is known — in the past, the city has seen Ganesh idols in avatars modelled after Lord Shiva, Krishna, Sai Baba and Shivaji Maharaj, besides others. 

This year, however, the trend doing the rounds at stalls is idols inspired by the recently-deceased Shiv Sena supremo, Bal Thackeray.

These idols replicate several traits Thackeray was known for, from his attire to his most famous poses.
 
Idol-maker Saurabh Raukar, who distributes idols from Pen district to Pune, said, “The Ganesh idol has an orange kurta, rudraksh mala, throne-like chair, and that patent style in which Balasaheb raised his hand. 

Another popular theme is where Balasaheb is seated next to a Ganesh idol.” He claims these idols are in top demand this year, and are being booked rapidly — around 1,000 have already been transported from Pen to the city.

Raukar added, “We lost Balasaheb in November last year, and many of us are still coping with his loss. This is our little way of paying tribute to him.” 

The Balasaheb-Ganesh idols are most two feet tall and priced at Rs 1,500 in the wholesale market, and at Rs 3,500 by retailers.

Commenting on the overall situation of his craft, Raukar further said, “This year, the overall cost of idols has taken a 30 per cent hike.
 
With increasing costs of Plaster of Paris, colours, shimmer and other raw materials. idol makers are finding it difficult to maintain quality. Additionally, hiked diesel rates have upped transport costs as well.”

Source: Pune Mirror.in