Hyderabad, Aug. 21 -- As Ganesh Chaturthi approaches, devotees are thronging to local markets to purchase idols of Lord Ganesha. The demand for idols of various sizes and designs is high, with sellers reporting a significant increase in sales compared to previous years.

Nitesh, a devotee from Bowenpally, noted that he has been celebrating the festival for 40 years and said, "Every year we buy a 7-foot Ganesh idol. However, this year the prices are exorbitant, with sellers quoting around Rs.34,000 for a 7-foot idol and even Rs.35,000 for a 1-foot idol. Last year, the prices were relatively lower."

Arjun, another devotee from Ramnagar, said, "We came here to book a Ganesh idol for Ganesh Chaturthi. We have been placing Ganesh idols in our...