Barodians set to welcome Ganpati Bappa in cool avatars

Like every year, Ganpati Bappa has arrived in style, and already started making His presence felt in Vadodara. From adorable little idols to the traditional ones and some which are inspired by Bollywood, there are numerous cool avatars that the devotees will get to see here over the next few days. And the best part is that no matter how many varieties one gets to see when it comes to the idols, the popularity of the traditional ones hasn’t been affected much.As Rajendra Shinde, one of the city’s most respected idol makers, tells us, “We have been making traditional Ganesha idols for years now and the demand has only increased with each passing year. There’s no denying the fact that there are youngsters who opt for idols that are inspired by cartoon characters or Bollywood films. But it hasn’t affected us in any way.” Manish Indulkar, a key member of a popular pandal in the city, explains, “If one has theme-based pandals, then the idols are chosen accordingly. Those who celebrate the festival at home often opt for these innovative idols, since they are very popular with kids. Lord Ganesha is one of our cutest gods and that reflects in the idols too.” Here’s taking a look at some interesting types of idols that we have spotted this year:
As the Cricketing all-rounder:With a bat in one hand and a ball in another,He is there to solveall types of cricketing woes in this avatar. This one scores high!

In Other Divine Forms:Whether it isLord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, Lord Krishna or Shirdi Sai Baba,there seem to be takers forBappa Morya in many different divine forms.

The Baahubali avatar:Ever since became a big hit, the movie has made its presence felt on numerous platforms. A famous scene from the film, which shows the hero lifting a massive Shivling, seems to have inspired the idol makers.

With Cartoon Characters:

Just like they did during Raksha Bandhan, different

cartoon characters

have made

their presence felt this time too. An idol, which has Chhota Bheem lifting Lord Ganesha on his shoulder, looks set to become a rage with kids.

The Peshwa Pose:

This one traces

its roots to the success of the Bollywood film

Bajirao Mastani

. Bappa Morya is seen sitting on his throne in grand Bajirao style.

Riding into hearts:

Looks like some of the makers have given serious thought to Lord Ganesha’s travel plans too. And simplicity is the key here, like using a tricycle. Quite a nice thought, indeed.

In Action Mode: There are also some idols where the Bappa Morya is seen as a warrior, and taming a lion.