Idol Ganesha made of clay has become more expensive this season, pinching the bags of people who have their shoulders in their homes.
Vendors and idol makers cite covid-induced limitations and locking for price increases.
They said because the pandemic, the people involved in the business did not have enough jobs.
Because this is their main source of income, prices have been made to redeem losses.
For example, a 15-inch idol, which sells at RS 400 years ago, is now valued at Rs 700 to RS 800.
Idol 18 inches, medium now sells for RS 900-1.020, a minimum price increase of RS 200 from last season.
However, the vendor said the request was low.
Chennabasava, who has sold Ganesha’s idol for the past seven years, said this season was the worst he had ever seen.
“I used to sell at least 300 clay idols every year, but this year I haven’t sold even 100,” said Chennabasava.
He said it was a catchment-22 situation.
High prices shrink buyers, but on the other hand, vendors are not able to drop prices.
Chennabasava, who also worked as an electrician, said he did not have enough work during locking.
But he also acknowledged innocent people because they also had no money.
The Gopal Bhagavant Pattar, another vendor, said he only sold 50 pieces so far.
“People want idols at Rs 400, but we will experience a big loss if we reduce the price,” Pattar said.
He said there were more requests for Paris idol plaster because the price was a little less than clay.
Idol clay is environmentally friendly, so the pandemic, by the way, contributes to pollution, said the vendor.
Pattar said most vendors buy idols from the factory in Gokak.
Factories are charging higher to redeem losses.
He said this year, he had to be satisfied with the loss.