Ancient Sculpting Craft Preserved: Seventh Generation Continues 225-Year Tradition of Carving Ganesha Statues in Madhya Pradesh
For over seven generations, the Khargonkar family in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has been dedicated to the crafting of Lord Ganesha idols, a tradition that dates back to the Holkar State. Each idol, made entirely by family members, is a testament to their devotion and skill.
Every year, starting on June 1st, the family embarks on a creative journey, producing nearly 100-125 idols of different sizes. Their idols are renowned for their historical connections to traditional Hindu religious practices and are traditionally housed in Hindu temples and homes for worship.
The family's commitment to eco-friendliness is evident in their process. They use only natural clay and avoid chemical colours or oil paints, ensuring their idols are a sustainable choice for devotees.
This year, there's a growing demand for idols adorned with turbans, particularly the Puneri Pagdi, and for those modelled after the famous Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati of Pune. Marble lamps, terracotta, wooden, paper-mâché, and other handcrafted items are also gaining popularity among devotees.
The design of the idols, finalized by Moropant Khargonkar in the first generation, remains unchanged. The intricate workmanship and fine detailing make the eco-friendly idols stand out, reflecting the family's dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Before the idol-making process begins, the family performs the Ganapati Atharvashirsha recitation and offers prayers to Lord Ganesha on Basant Panchami. This ritualistic start sets the tone for the creation of each idol.
Successive generations, including Amrit Khargonkar, Sakharam, Govind Khargonkar, Shyam, Amit, and now Avani, have carried forward this sacred tradition. Avani, a granddaughter, represents the seventh generation and balances her studies alongside assisting her grandfather. Even Nitesh, a nephew who works as an engineer at Mahindra Company, takes leave to help with the idol-making.
The family's tradition involves using only yellow clay and avoiding plaster of Paris. This commitment to authenticity is evident in the idols they create, which are still made in the exact form prescribed by the Holkar State.
The Boliya Sarkar family's chhatri near Shri Krishna Talkies is known due to the worship of "Kalamwale Ganesh". However, the Khargonkar family's idols have also made a significant impact, with historical connections that span centuries.
In the past, the Lavlekar royal family commissioned annual Lord Ganesha idols seated on a horse, and when Narmada water was brought to Indore, officials from Jalud requested a peacock-mounted Ganesha idol, which was created by Shyam Khargonkar.
Creating the largest idol takes around 15 days, a testament to the time and dedication invested in each creation. The Khargonkar family's Ganesha idols continue to be a symbol of devotion, tradition, and craftsmanship, cherished by devotees across India.
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