Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Visakhapatnam are expected to become more expensive this year, with the prices of Ganesha idols likely to increase by around 15–20%.
The rise in prices has been linked to higher costs of raw materials, labour and transportation.
Idol makers from different parts of Rajasthan and West Bengal have been preparing Ganesha idols for the upcoming festival season.
The artisans are making idols of different sizes for households and public Ganesh pandals across the city.
The report notes that idols ranging from around six feet to 12 feet are being prepared in different parts of Visakhapatnam.
Apart from idols, the prices of various puja-related commodities have also reportedly increased.
The higher costs are expected to add to the overall expenditure of Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations this year.
Ganesh pandal organisers may also have to allocate larger budgets for idols and other festival arrangements.
Despite the increase in prices, preparations for the festival are gathering momentum across Vizag.
More than 1,500 Ganesh pandals are expected to be set up in the city for the celebrations.
Artisans are currently busy completing idol orders as demand increases ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi.
The annual festival continues to generate significant activity for idol makers, decorators, transporters and other businesses associated with the celebrations.