This Ganeshotsav, ‘Bappa’ is not just sitting on a traditional throne. In several big pandals, he is balancing on one leg, taking unusual poses, appearing in different avatars and is being presented through elaborate artistic concepts. From warrior-like postures to larger-than-life forms, idol makers are increasingly treating the 10-day festival as a stage to showcase creativity and craftsmanship. Large Ganesha idols have always been a major attraction during Ganeshotsav, but the creativity surrounding them has changed considerably. Sculptors are experimenting with posture, expressions, body movements and intricate detailing to create something devotees may not have seen before. Some idols are designed in dynamic poses, while others use carefully engineered structures to create the impression of Bappa balancing, blessing devotees from a height or appearing in a powerful avatar.

 

For artisans, such designs are not simply about making an idol look different. They require extensive planning, structural support and attention to balance. A large idol with an unusual posture has to be carefully designed so that its weight remains distributed safely. “Today, people want to see something different. Creating a unique pose on a large idol is extremely challenging because it is not only about the artistic expression but also about maintaining the structure and balance. When the final idol comes together, it feels like an artist’s imagination has come alive,” said a sculptor. The creativity has also found appreciation among devotees. Many believe that such experimentation gives artists an opportunity to showcase their talent and makes the festival more visually engaging. “Art keeps changing with time. If the artist is bringing creativity while respecting Bappa and the festival, there is nothing wrong with trying new poses or forms,” said a devotee.

 

However, there are also those who feel that the race to create the most unusual idol could overshadow the traditional character of Ganeshotsav. “There is a difference between artistic creativity and making an idol unusual just for attraction. When the pose, size or avatar becomes the main talking point, devotion can sometimes take a back seat,” said another devotee. For artists, though, innovation and tradition need not be opposites. Traditional elements can be retained even while experimenting with contemporary forms and dramatic poses. The real challenge for artists and organisers is to ensure that behind every unusual pose and striking form, the devotion that brings people together for Ganeshotsav remains at the centre.