Bhubaneswar, Sept 16: With Vishwakarma Puja just around the corner, the capital city has turned festive as markets witness a rush for idols of Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect and deity of machines.

Idols ranging from 1.5 feet to 7 feet have been put on display across the city. While some people are purchasing smaller idols for worship at home garages, others are buying larger ones for offices, workshops and industrial establishments.

Traditionally, Vishwakarma Puja was mainly observed in factories, engineering institutions, workshops and offices. However, in recent years, the celebration has gradually become more widespread, with families also bringing home idols of the deity, particularly households owning multiple two-wheelers or four-wheelers.

The growing demand has also brought better business for idol makers. Several reputed artisans in Bhubaneswar have been receiving orders nearly eight days ahead of the puja, with customers booking idols of their preferred designs and sizes in advance.

Currently, Vishwakarma idols are being sold at prices ranging from ₹150 to ₹5,000, depending on their size and design.

Industrial establishments in areas such as Rasulgarh, Bhagwanpur, Mancheswar, Chandaka and Infocity are also preparing for elaborate Vishwakarma Puja celebrations.

Over 1,100 Idols Made This Year

According to Arun Mahapatra, an idol maker from Old Bhubaneswar, the demand for Vishwakarma idols for household worship has increased significantly over the past few years.

“People are placing orders nearly eight days in advance for idols of their choice,” he said.

Mahapatra said his team has made more than 1,100 Vishwakarma idols of different sizes this year. Apart from this, around 25 large idols are currently being prepared for the final phase of Bhalukuni Osha, which falls on the coming Sunday.

With work continuing at full pace, around 44 artisans have been engaged in the idol-making process.

With both household and institutional demand rising, Vishwakarma Puja has emerged as an important annual occasion for idol makers and businesses across Bhubaneswar.