NRIs come forward to help Karnataka idol maker ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi

The business of idol makers has taken a severe hit as they have not got orders for Ganesh idols ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi due to prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. In the wake of this, Non-resident Indians (NRIs) have shown a great example of humanity by promising to help an idol maker from Karnataka.

Dharwad (Karnataka): As the business of idol makers has been severely affected due to prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, Non-resident Indians (NRIs) have shown a great example of humanity by promising to help an idol maker from Karnataka.

A few days back, Manjunath Hiremath, an idol maker from Dharwad, had posted a video on social media showing his apathy.

Taking note of the video, NRIs from various countries contacted Hiremath through Zoom app and assured of all kind of help.

NRIs told Hiremath that they would buy his idols online only if he performs an online puja for five days and stream it live for them.

Speaking to media Hiremath said that NRIs have come forward to help him after his video went viral on social media.

"I had posted a video showing my concerns as my business was severely affected due to prevailing COVID-19 pandemic. Few NRIs contacted me and told me that they will purchase the idols and I will have to perform online 'puja' for them," said an escalated Hiremath.

The Karnataka government on Tuesday allowed pandals for Ganesh Chaturthi, reversing its order from last week.

The revised guidelines issued by Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa say public celebrations can be held on August 22, in a restricted manner.

Last week, the government had banned gatherings and public installations of pandals and idols due to the increasing number of COVID cases in the state. The celebrations had been restricted only to temples and homes.