Hyderabad: On Friday, the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi asked the government to support Ganesh idol makers against “private money lenders from non-Hindu communities.”
Leaders from the Samithi requested the government to stop what they call “theft by other religions” in the Ganesh idol business. They stressed the need to assist artisans. The call was made during a meeting in Uppal-Nagole, organized by the Bhagyanagar Ganesh Utsav Samithi. Dr. Ravinutala Shashidhar, the VHP National Spokesperson and Samithi Secretary, was the main speaker. He announced that preparations are underway for the 46th Ganesh Festival, which will be celebrated on a grand scale from August 27 to September 6.
Shashidhar pointed out that middlemen are taking advantage of Hindu idol makers, who have been creating Ganesh idols in the city for 25 to 30 years, coming from places like Rajasthan and Gujarat.
He claimed that middlemen from Muslim and Christian groups have entered the business. Shashidhar emphasized that this affects Hindu religious beliefs, as other religious traders offer low prices, causing problems for organizers. He also stated that these middlemen charge high interest rates on loans, harassing idol makers. The Ganesh Utsav Samithi aims to find a lasting solution, with plans in progress. Shashidhar concluded by saying that only Hindus should make and sell the idols, but people from other religions are currently involved.
