Ludhiana, Oct. 19 -- With Diwali just around the corner, markets in Ludhiana are bustling with shoppers picking up earthen lamps, clay idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi and other decorative items. Yet, the traditional hatdis - small clay temple structures used during Diwali pooja - are witnessing surprisingly low sales amid fading awareness of their cultural and spiritual significance.

Local artisans and vendors say the decline goes beyond changing consumer preferences.

Sudhir Kumar, an artisan from New Chander Nagar, said, "The drop is a result of younger generations being unaware of the cultural importance of hatdis. Earlier, families would buy at least one hatdi every year to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into their homes. Now, man...