Demand for PoP Ganesha idols still high in city despite ban

As the city gears up for the Ganesha festival, the demand for Ganesha idols is on the rise, leaving many customers confused about which type of idol to purchase.
The market is flooded with a wide variety of Ganesha idols, each unique in design and craftsmanship. Despite the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) strict orders prohibiting the sale of Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesha idols due to their harmful environmental impact, many people are still seeking PoP idols because of their appealing appearance.
While speaking with News Trail, a vendor named Jagadish at the City Market shared, “The demand for PoP Ganesha idols has not reduced. People still come in asking for them because they prefer the glossy finish and intricate details that PoP idols offer.”
Another vendor at Gandhi Bazar named Vijay Balu echoed his sentiment, saying, “We have had customers walk away because we only stock clay idols, but they specifically want PoP. They say the clay idols don’t have the same look and feel.” This has created a challenge for vendors, who are struggling to meet the preferences of both environmentally conscious buyers and those who prioritise aesthetics.
Despite the ban, PoP idols continue to attract a loyal customer base. One such buyer named Srilakshmi explained her preference saying, “I have always bought PoP Ganesha idols. They are more striking and last longer. The clay ones, though eco-friendly, don’t have that same charm.” Another customer Shanmukha said, “I know PoP is bad for the environment, but for me, it’s about maintaining the tradition. I have grown up seeing PoP Ganesha in our home, and it feels incomplete without it.”
However, not all customers are in favour of PoP idols. The awareness on the environmental damage caused by PoP, which does not dissolve easily in water and releases harmful chemicals, is spreading. One eco-conscious buyer Lakshmi Kanth explained, “We switched to clay Ganesha a few years ago. Yes, it may not look as polished as PoP, but it is better for the environment.” Another customer Vasundaraa (name changed) added, “For me, the beauty of the festival is in its simplicity. We have been buying clay Ganesha for a while.''