Hyderabad: Telangana’s capital city is currently abuzz with the grand celebrations of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which this year has proved a boon for local traders. City officials estimate that the festivities have generated over Rs. 650 crore in business, with both small and large enterprises enjoying substantial profits. In the Dhoolpet area alone, trade worth around Rs. 50 crore has been recorded.

The preparation of Ganesh idols begins several months in advance, as craftsmen meticulously create everything from small figurines to towering statues. For hundreds of families, this trade provides a vital livelihood. The demand for materials such as clay, plaster of Paris, paints, and decorative supplies has fostered a thriving industry, employing artisans and labourers across the city.

Economic impact extends well beyond idol making

The festival’s economic impact extends well beyond idol-making. Electric lamps, garlands, canopies, and decorative items see a surge in demand, benefiting tent houses, florists, and electricians. Sales of puja essentials including coconuts, fruits, turmeric, saffron, camphor, and offerings also rise sharply, while street vendors and small shops report notable increases in revenue.

Food businesses experience a significant boost, particularly those preparing traditional sweets such as laddus and modaks, as well as anna prasads for devotees. The city’s famous laddu auctions alone attract crores of rupees, while sweet shops and catering services work overtime to fulfil festival orders. Considerable sums are also spent on organising Annaprasadam at mandapams.

Logistics play a key role in the celebrations, with heavy vehicles, tractors, and cranes hired to transport idols to mandapams and immersion sites, often costing thousands of rupees per idol.

Major economic driver for Hyderabad

This year, the Ganesh immersion festival has not only been a religious and cultural spectacle but also a major economic driver for Hyderabad, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a hub of festive commerce and artisan enterprise.