Fibre temples hit market

LUCKNOW: Move away showpiece temples made of aluminium and wood, its time for detachable and portable temples. This Navratra, these temples, in attractive colours and designs, have hit the market with a bang. In fact, these temples are more of a puzzle for first timers.
However, a fibre temple is evident as soon as one assembles three to four pieces of this puzzle."Temples made of fibre are available here for the first time. These temples are lighter in weight than the usual wood and aluminium temples," said Gaurav Tandon, a shop owner in Aminabad dealing in these temples.
"The usual one-and-a-half-feet high temple of aluminium and wood weighs around three kilograms, while a fibre temple of the same size weighs only half kilogram. Besides, these temples are washable and portable too," he said and added that fibre temples were available in different sizes ranging from six inches to two feet.
Off-white and golden brown shades lend a copper and marble look to the temple. There's also a drawer and an 'agarbatti' stand to facilitate the puja. Besides, it has colourful lights along with small bells. Available in a wide range these temples cost between Rs 600 and Rs 1,500, added Tandon.
Another attraction this Navratra are marble idols of the Goddess available in dull as well as fluorescent colours. Floral 'bandanwars' made of cloth ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 600 too are also available in the market. "Cloth can be washed easily hence is preferred by the people," added Tandon.
"The temple and the idols are breathtaking," said Mansi Shukla. "Initially, I thought that the temple was made of marble. Later, I realised that it was made of fibre and hence the light weight. I could not resist buying it," she added.
Another buyer Pooja Chhabra said "They are easy to handle as they are portable and washable. Moreover attachments of accessories like drawer and 'agarbatti' stand have made storage of puja items convenient."