Hyderabad’s Ganeshotsav got a particularly glittering start this year. Lee-Chee Ka Raja Ganpati arrived in Begum Bazar, Hyderabad, on September 9, 24K gold-plated and 3.83 lakh American diamonds. The idol may not be one of the city’s tallest, but it is certainly hard to miss. Once the lights hit the gold and stones, the entire murti takes on a striking sparkle.
Hyderabad’s Golden Ganesha With 24K Gold & 3.83 Lakh Diamonds
The numbers alone are enough to make you look twice. This year’s Lee-Chee Ka Raja has been finished with 24-karat gold plating and 3,83,800 American diamonds.
According to a report by Free Press Journal, the elaborate detailing gives the idol its distinctive shine. And when it made its way into Begum Bazar, devotees had plenty to look at, with the gold surface and rows of diamonds catching the light from every angle.
A Ganpati Inspired By Lalbaugcha Raja & Tirupati Balaji
There is another interesting detail behind the idol. Its design takes inspiration from Lalbaugcha Raja in Mumbai, while also borrowing elements from Tirupati Balaji.
The combination gives Lee-Chee Ka Raja a look that feels familiar, but not quite like the usual Ganpati idol. It brings together the grand, instantly recognisable style of Lalbaugcha Raja with the traditional visual cues associated with Tirumala’s presiding deity.
Videos From The Aagman Take Over Social Media
The September 9 aagman was every bit as lively as you would expect. Videos from Begum Bazar show large crowds gathering to welcome Bappa, with devotees lining the route as the idol made its way through the celebrations.
There was plenty of noise, colour and cheering, but the idol itself remained the obvious star of the show. The gold finish and diamond-studded detailing stood out particularly well under the lights, making for some seriously eye-catching footage.
The Hyderabad Jewellery House Behind The Idol
The idol has been created for the Lee-Chee Ka Raja Ganeshotsav pandal, with the craftsmanship attributed to Leechee Pearls Jewels, a Hyderabad-based jewellery house known for its ornamental work.
Given the jewellery house behind the project, the elaborate finish feels rather fitting. Instead of relying on sheer height to make an impression, the idol puts the focus firmly on its detailing.
Also Read: Pune’s Manache Ganpati: History, Significance & Where To Visit These 5 Honoured Mandal’
Grandeur Doesn’t Always Mean Going Bigger
From the gold plating to those thousands of sparkling stones, Lee-Chee Ka Raja has certainly found its own way to stand out this Ganeshotsav.
In a city where giant Ganpati idols often become the main attraction, this Bappa takes a different route.
Cover Image Courtesy: Sanatan_Dharam_.45, Lee-Chee Ka Raja/Instagram