Vishwakarma Puja Celebrated with Idol Worship and Increased Demand
Summary
Vishwakarma Puja has drawn strong demand for idols in Lalitpur and across the Kathmandu Valley, giving a boost to local sculptors and factory owners. Artisans say orders have risen this year, with idols priced from Rs 3,500 to Rs 35,000.
Key Points
- Vishwakarma Puja is celebrated on Ashoj Sankranti, with factories, tools and machines worshipped on the occasion.
- Idol maker Bikau Pandit’s factory in Sanepa, Lalitpur, has seen increased customer demand this year.
- The idols are made with straw, clay and soil brought mainly from the Terai and Bhaktapur, and decorative items are imported from India.
- Sculptors say the business was hurt by the COVID-19 lockdown and last year’s Janji movement, but demand has improved this season.
_v8fuR2fgt0.webp)