As the city prepares for Ganesh Chaturthi, one pandal in Uppuguda is drawing national attention for turning faith into a patriotic tribute. The Sri Mallikarjun Nagar Youth Welfare Association has unveiled a Ganesh idol themed on Operation Sindoor, worth nearly Rs. 6 lakh, decorated with replicas of the BrahMos missile system and the S-400 air defense system.
A Fusion of Faith and Force
The idol, crafted with intricate detail, is more than a centerpiece of celebration. By incorporating symbols of India’s strategic weaponry, it pays homage to the armed forces and their role in safeguarding national security. Organizers say the theme is meant to remind devotees that devotion and patriotism can exist side by side.
Eco-Friendly Craftsmanship
Like many pandals across Hyderabad this year, the idol has been made with eco-conscious materials. With nearly 1.4 lakh idols set to be installed across the city, civic bodies have pushed for a “swadeshi” and eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi. The Uppuguda pandal stands out not for size, but for its narrative power — blending artistry with national pride.
Operation Sindoor in Clay and Color
Operation Sindoor, a recent military campaign, has been reimagined through traditional sculpture. The replicas of the BrahMos and S-400, both iconic symbols of India’s defense capability, anchor the idol as a living symbol of resilience and sovereignty. For visitors, the message is clear: worship can honor not only the divine, but also those who defend the nation.
In Hyderabad this Ganesh Chaturthi, one idol has become more than an object of devotion. It is a patriotic statement, a salute in clay and color to India’s armed forces.
