A Grand Ganesh Chaturthi Tradition
Khairatabad, located in the Indian state of Telangana (formerly part of undivided Andhra Pradesh), is renowned for hosting one of the most magnificent Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in the country. The festival here runs for ten days and draws visitors from across India, all eager to witness the towering Ganapathi idol that has made this location famous. Khairatabad's Ganesh idol is widely regarded as the tallest among all the idols installed during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations nationwide.
The Grand Immersion Procession
On the final day of the festival, the massive idol is carried through the streets in a grand procession before being immersed in Hussain Sagar Lake. This immersion ceremony is a major draw, with devotees and tourists from different parts of the country gathering to witness the colorful spectacle.
A New Theme Every Year
Each year, the idol's design incorporates a unique theme or special feature to surprise and delight visitors. While the Ganapathi idol is typically depicted in a standing pose, on select occasions it has been sculpted in a seated posture on a throne, symbolizing blessings upon devotees. The main idol is usually flanked by statues of other gods and goddesses, adding to the grandeur of the display.
Behind the Scenes: How the Idol Is Made
Work on the idol begins well ahead of the festival and is completed before the ten-day celebrations begin. A large team of sculptors, painters, and skilled artisans work tirelessly, often around the clock, to complete the statue on schedule. The idol is built using materials such as steel, Plaster of Paris, and organic water-based colors.
Idol Specifications
Total weight: Approximately 17 tonnes
Steel used: Nearly 12 tonnes
Plaster of Paris used: Over 5 tonnes
Height: More than 55 feet
Laddu (sweet offering) in hand: Around 30 kg, later distributed among devotees
Construction cost: Approximately ₹20 lakhs
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