Heavy rains and flooding in Odisha are creating problems for Ganesh Puja preparations. Many villages in Jajpur and Kendrapada have been affected, leaving artisans worried about selling their idols.
Artisans make earthen idols of Lord Ganesh to sell to schools, clubs, and local communities before the festival. With flooded villages and waterlogged streets, many celebrations have been canceled or scaled down.
Ramesh Behera, an idol maker from Dasarathpur village, said, “I made 35 idols, but now I am not sure if I can sell them all because of the floods.”
In flood-hit villages like Kaspa and Malikapur, residents have chosen low-key celebrations or decided not to celebrate at all. Local leaders have asked people to celebrate safely and with fewer gatherings due to the risk of flooding.
Despite the challenges, idol makers continue to work hard, hoping to sell their idols where possible. Another Artisan, Sarat Behera said, “My whole family is making idols, but many puja organizers have canceled orders because of the flood.”
Also read- https://ayurvedicmagazine.com/punjab-records-excess-rainfall/
The floods are not only affecting the festival mood but also causing financial losses for local artisans who depend on these sales for their livelihood.
