For the past 50 years, S.Balakrishnan and his family have been celebrating Vinayagar Chathurthi, a tradition that began in Mumbai and continues with great enthusiasm in Adyar, Chennai. This year, the family’s annual 5-day celebration, which focuses on unity and community, features a spectacular replica of Hampi’s Lotus Mahal.
The 7-foot-tall structure, also known as Chitrangi Mahal, was meticulously crafted from thermocol, pins, glue, and chart paper. It took the family over a month and approximately 800 pieces to complete the intricate design. The choice of the Lotus Mahal was inspired by its historical significance; it was built by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire and featured an advanced water-cooling system.
Over the past five decades, the family has created diverse Vinayagar Chathurthi decorations, including recreations of the Anna Nagar Tower, Worli Sea Link, Jantar Mantar, the Eiffel Tower, and various global temples. The tradition, which now includes Balakrishnan’s daughter, son-in-law, and grandsons, aims to bring friends, relatives, and neighbours together to celebrate India’s unity in diversity.
The family takes immense pride in their celebrations, which have become a cherished community event.
