Ganesh idols are increasingly being designed around film stars and their popular screen images, and this is a trend that deserves to be questioned. Bappa is supposed to be Bappa. Turning the idol into a celebrity lookalike is not creativity that the festival needs.
The latest example is a Vijay-inspired Ganesh idol based on his assembly-style appearance. For Vijay fans, it may be exciting. But why should Lord Ganesha be made to look like a film star or a political personality in the first place? A religious idol should not become another platform for showing which star a person follows.
This has been building for some time. Pushpa-inspired Ganesh idols, RRR-themed designs and KGF-style idols have all appeared during Ganesh Chaturthi. Every year, the line seems to move a little further. First it was film characters. Now even a star’s political image can become an idol concept.
That is where fanism starts overpowering devotion. Cinema already occupies almost every part of popular culture. Stars are everywhere, from theatres and social media to advertisements and fan celebrations. Ganesh Chaturthi does not need to become another stage for hero worship.
There is also a serious problem with bringing political imagery into the festival. Political loyalties can divide people, while Ganesh Chaturthi is meant to bring communities together. Turning Bappa into a symbol of a particular star or political figure only adds another layer of unnecessary fandom.
Fans can celebrate their heroes in countless ways. They can make posters, organise events and celebrate releases. But a Ganesh idol should not be one of them.
Bappa does not need the face of a superstar to attract attention. He does not need a movie reference to become popular. He does not need a political identity.
Bappa should be Bappa. Not a film star. Not a movie character. Not a political figure.
