Visakhapatnam decks up for ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’
Visakhapatnam is preparing for the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival with vibrant markets and unique idol displays. While there is a growing awareness of environmental issues, many residents continue to purchase Plaster of Paris idols over clay alternatives.
Why it matters
The article highlights the intersection of cultural traditions, local economic activity, and the ongoing challenge of environmental sustainability in urban religious celebrations.
The Ganesh Chaturthi festivities have gained momentum in Visakhapatnam, with the streets abuzz with preparations. As the Ganesh Puja is just after the weekend, people are engaging in activities and organising events and programmes with plenty of time on their hands.
Markets witnessed brisk activity on Saturday evening (September 12, 2026) despite intermittent rain, with people purchasing decoration items for the puja. Fruits and flowers were among the most sought-after items, while vendors also reported good demand for colourful decorative umbrellas, hangings, and other accessories commonly used to decorate Ganesh pandals and homes.
A wide variety of colourful Ganesh idols were being sold at markets across the city. Vendors said that many people continued to show interest in idols made of Plaster of Paris despite growing awareness about the environmental impact of non-clay idols. Clay idols, they said, were comparatively less in demand.
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