MANGALURU: True to His epithet of an obstacle-destroyer, no visa hassles for this traveller making a trip to US for the 28th straight year. A family from Mangaluru settled in California has been celebrating Ganesha festival by worshipping idols created by a Mangaluru sculptor every year.
Though idols of Lord Ganesha are available across the world, the US-based family prefers idols created by sculptor Mohan Rao's family for nearly three decades. An idol was sent to California a week ago for the Aug 27 festival this year.
The family of Ramachandra Rao, from Mannagudda here, has been making idols for four generations. Ramachandra Rao's father, late Mohan Rao, started making Ganesha idols 96 years ago. Since then, his four children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren have been engaged in making idols.
Venkatesh Rao, grandson of Mohan Rao, told TOI that the Sherlekar family, which has roots in Bejai here, has been buying our idols every year without fail. "A branch of that family has settled in California. This is the 28th year they are buying the idol from us."
A member of the Sherlekar said they prefer idols from the Rao family because "makers follow all traditions - design, discipline and calculation, among others - while crafting idols. Hence, we do not bring Ganesha idols from any other place."
A Sherlekar family member who was in India personally carried the idol to US. "Since cabin luggage has a 7kg limit with height and weight specifications, we ensured the idol weight is under 5kg and kept its height at 1ft. The idol has reached the family in California. Our fond hope is that the bond between the US-based family and our family will continue for many more generations," said Rao.
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He is an Assistant Editor with The Times of India, Mangaluru.
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