Kasargod , 12 September (H.S.): As Kasaragod prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi and Ganeshotsavam, sculptor Lakshmeesha Acharya is working tirelessly to complete hundreds of clay idols at his workshop near the Nellikunnu Girls’ Higher Secondary School.

Acharya has been crafting Ganesh idols for temples, festival committees and households across Kerala and Karnataka for the past three-and-a-half decades. His workshop, Sriram Nivas, on BRS Road in Nellikunnu, is now filled with beautifully designed idols ranging from one-and-a-half feet to seven feet in height.

The principal attraction this year is a seven-foot-tall Ganesh idol being prepared for the celebrations at the Mallikarjuna Temple in Kasaragod. Acharya’s creations reflect the cultural identity and traditions of Tulu Nadu.

Apart from making eco-friendly clay idols, the sculptor also undertakes intricate silverwork on their crowns according to customers’ preferences. He is assisted by his younger brother and fellow sculptor Yogeeshwara Acharya, besides their children and other family members.

Temple committees and festival organisers from Kasaragod and Manjeshwaram taluks are among the workshop’s major customers. Several families from Kasaragod and Kannur districts also visit the workshop every year to purchase idols for household celebrations.

However, Acharya said the craft was facing serious challenges due to a shortage of clay and the rising cost of raw materials, particularly paints. These factors have considerably increased production expenses and placed pressure on traditional artisans.

Ganeshotsavam holds considerable religious and cultural importance in Kasaragod district. On the concluding day, large clay idols are carried in colourful processions before being immersed in the sea as part of the traditional ritual.

Kasaragod also traditionally declares a public holiday on Ganesh Chaturthi, which falls on Monday this year, underlining the festival’s special significance in the district.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman