CANACONA
Markets in Canacona have been abuzz with people seeking to purchase Matoli ingredients and other festive requirements while artisans were almost ready with their Ganesh idols, as people are eagerly awaiting Ganesh Chaturthi in the taluka.
ARTISANS
Artisans were working overtime to give final touches to their idols at different workshops, ahead of deliveries on Friday morning.
According to sources, there are four major workshops in Canacona who prepare Ganesh Idols on large scale (above 150 idols), while other smaller artisans were preparing idols in their homes or surrounding houses.
Manoj Prabhugaonkar, an artisan from Maxem-Loliem, is almost ready with about 180 Ganesh idols of various sizes and shapes. This year he has prepared about 16 Ganesh idols from papier-mâché (Patri).
“Nowadays, more people prefer Patri-Ganapati because of its light weight and natural presentation. A small piece of clay is used in making Patri-Ganapati as a traditional practice,” said Prabhugaonkar.
Prabhugaonkar has found it difficult to get specialized clay (Chikan-Mathi) and this year, he brought a special load of clay from Sawantwadi-Maharashtra. While the smallest Ganesh idols at Prabhugaonkar’s workshop are priced at Rs 1,800, the maximum price is Rs 3,500.
Since last week, many households have selected their idols, while some others have sought customised idols of their choice, size and colour.
MARKETS
Ingredients for the Matoli are in high demand and are available for sale in every part of the taluka.
The Chaudi market and several streets in Canacona, including the highway and village roadsides, were filled with forest dwellers selling various types of edible and non-edible wild fruits and flowers, while motorists were busy making their purchases.
At least three Matoli decoration competitions have been announced in the taluka, with almost all of them announcing the use of only eco-friendly and natural ingredients.
Most shops selling Ganesh Chaturthi related items reported brisk sale of various products used for decorations. Garment shops, electrical/electronic outlets and general stores reported heavy trade for the upcoming festive season, while demand for fruits and vegetables has also picked up.
However, sources said the demand for fireworks has been low, with few people turning up to purchase fireworks.
