Author: Arpita Srivastava
Publication: The Navhind Times
Date: September 9, 2026
URL:    https://epaper.navhindtimes.in/NewsDetail.aspx?storyid=23752&date=2026-09-09&pageid=1#

At the Ganesh Chitra Shala at the Central Jail at Colvale, eco-friendly Ganesh idols, made in different sizes, are available for sale. They are being sold at rates lower than market prices.

The idols have been made by inmates working in the jail's pottery section.

In-charge of the Industrial Unit, Vilas Parab, said inmates were working to complete the idols in time for the festival.

"These idols are eco-friendly as they are made from traditional clay," said Parab.

The clay, locally known as chikatmati, was procured from Mandrem.

The idols are available in one-foot, one-and-a-half-foot and three-foot sizes. Parab said that delivery could also be arranged for buyers.

The idols are being sold at rates lower than market prices

The pottery work is among several production activities undertaken at the Modern Central Jail to help inmates use their time productively and acquire skills that could support them after their release.

The prison department has production units for scented candles, showpieces made from magazine paper, wooden articles, computer tables and other items made through the carpentry unit.

During festive seasons, inmates also make akash kandils, Nagoba idols, and Narkasur masks.

Central Jail Superintendent Suchita Dessai and prison staff have been encouraging inmates to participate in these activities. Following the response to Nagoba idols, inmates in the pottery section took up making Ganesh idols again this year.

Parab said a business establishment from Ponda had also supported the initiative by placing orders.

The Ganesh idols are now being sold at the jail premises, giving visitors an opportunity to see the work produced in the pottery section before taking an idol home for the festival.