This year, Ahmedabad is seeing fewer public Ganesh pandals as costs go up and volunteers become harder to find. But families’ devotion to Bappa remains strong, with more households choosing to bring idols home.
Sharp fall in pandals
In 2023, the city had around 900 pandals, including 450 big ones. In 2024, the number dropped to 750, with only 300 large setups. This year, the decline is sharper—just about 500 pandals, with only 250 considered “major,” according to the Ahmedabad Sarvajanik Shree Ganesh Mahotsav Association.
The reasons: expensive eco-friendly idols, heavy rains and waterlogging, and fewer young people volunteering. “We expect nearly 30% fewer big pandals than last year,” said association president Ganesh Kshatriya. “Idol prices have soared, and youngsters are less involved due to studies and jobs. Most volunteers now are around 50 years old.”
More idols at home
Many believe the fall in pandals is linked to the growing trend of families bringing Ganesh idols home. “The home Ganesh tradition has been increasing every year,” said Kaushal Patel of Gurukul Yuvak Mitra Mandal. “Most societies also celebrate within their premises.”
Costs and challenges
Large idols for pandals—up to 10 feet tall—can cost between ₹50,000 and ₹1 lakh, double or triple what they cost just a few years ago. Even smaller eco-friendly idols are expensive. “We found a two-foot idol for ₹3,500, but in some areas the same size was selling for ₹16,000,” said Arvind Gupta, a resident of Shela.
Festive themes stay alive
Despite fewer pandals, the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi remains strong. Themes this year include Operation Sindoor, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, patriotism, Swadeshi, environmental conservation, and unity against foreign powers.