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Wednesday, 18th January 2006 (5561 views)

The strong market in gold representations of the Hindu god Ganesha has shown no sign of letting up, according to magazine The Week.

Ganesha, the half animal half human god with an elephant's head, is a recurring figure across India. Its figure appears in many different forms, including door knobs, keychains and necklaces, and it is beginning to be seen as an investor's tool and mascot.

As a result prices of 24-carat gold plated Ganeshas have increased rapidly.

Linea Argentine, an Italian firm, recently produced 15-inch high Ganeshas made from sterling silver and plated in gold.

The product proved so popular that its price leapt by 25 per cent after it was released and sold out completely. Linea Argentine is now working on a 100 piece series of two feet high Ganeshas which are likely to retail at 185000 rupees.

Ganesha is seen by many as a source of success and wealth, with some praying to him prior to taking exams or other endeavours where they believe Ganesha can help.

Kamal Tewari, chairman of Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi, said: "In a world inundated by the media, stories of the power of Ganesha - the vighnaharta or vanquisher of obstacles - are absorbed by those who can hear and see, if not read."

"They would like to appeal to Vighneshwara, to ward off evil and obstacles from their path. They too have become believers and devotees of Ganesha, though they may not consciously pray."

 

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