Mumbai artist crafts Ganesha idol ahead of festival celebration
- The Ganesh Festival in Mumbai lasts for 10 days, celebrating the elephant-headed deity Ganesha.
- Idol-making is a traditional industry that provides seasonal employment, especially for migrants from rural areas.
- The festival culminates in the immersion of idols, symbolizing the importance of detachment from material beauty.
In Mumbai, preparations for the annual Ganesh Festival begin months in advance, culminating in a vibrant celebration that lasts for 10 days. This festival honors Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity associated with wisdom and good fortune. During this time, idols of Ganesha are displayed publicly and in homes, where devotees worship them before immersing them in water, symbolizing the transient nature of life and the importance of detachment from material beauty. The idol-making process is a significant industry, with skills passed down through generations, providing seasonal employment for many migrants from rural areas. As the festival approaches, artists work diligently to complete the idols, often in makeshift workshops filled with various sizes and styles of Ganesha idols. The atmosphere is charged with a sense of urgency and devotion, as craftsmen focus on their intricate work, ensuring that each idol is ready for the celebrations. A photographer captures this behind-the-scenes activity, highlighting the dedication and artistry involved in creating these revered figures. The experience of witnessing the idol-making process offers a glimpse into the cultural significance of the festival and the community's collective effort to honor their deity.