Ganeshotsav 2023: How Mumbai's women murtikars defy the odds in a male-dominated industry

Mumbai's grandest festival is just around the corner. It's that special time of the year when the streets of Mumbai light up in honour of the worship of Lord Ganesha. Over these ten days of celebration, the city comes alive with a kaleidoscope of vivid colours, magnificent processions, and an atmosphere brimming with profound devotion.

At the heart of the enthusiasm lies the worship of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of prosperity and wisdom. In recent years, devotees have wholeheartedly embraced eco-friendly practices. The awe-inducing, pretty-looking, and majestic Ganesha idols are the artistic creations of our friendly neighbourhood sculptors, or murtikars as they are fondly called. Months before Ganesha's grand arrival, these dedicated sculptors invest countless hours in their workshops, meticulously shaping and fashioning the idols.

While the field has mostly been a male-dominated one, women today are making their presence felt as well. Ahead of the festival, mid-day spoke with a few Mumbai-based female sculptors and studio owners, specialising in making and selling Ganesha idols, and working hard to flourish.

Although traditionally a male-dominated field, women are increasingly making their presence felt in this industry today. In anticipation of the festival, mid-day had the opportunity to speak with several Mumbai-based female sculptors and studio owners who specialise in crafting and selling Ganesha idols. They are dedicated and hardworking individuals who are determined to thrive in their craft.

An uphill battle

Reshma Khatu, the daughter of Mumbai's renowned murtikar Vijay Khatu, faced no fewer challenges. After her father's untimely demise due to a heart attack in 2017, Reshma took charge of managing the workshop alongside her colleagues. For over 50 years, Khatu's workshop has stood as a tourist attraction, known for its towering and majestic Ganesha idols.

Reshma Khatu at workshop in Byculla. Pic/Manjeet Thakur

When discussing the challenges she encountered upon assuming her father's business, Reshma shared, "Following my father's passing in 2017, I encountered significant hardships. Nevertheless, I made the choice to persist in this industry and have successfully learned how to manage both the workers and sculptors."

Breaking the patriarchal mindset among the workers can be a formidable challenge, especially for women. Reshma Khatu faced the daunting task of dismantling this ingrained thought process. She remarked, "In a male-dominated industry, even as Vijay Khatu's daughter, being a lady boss made it difficult to assert control over the workers. It took time, but now everyone has accepted me."

When asked about challenges in receiving orders from customers, Reshma explained, "My father had set a benchmark, and the landscape has changed since then. People thought I got everything from my father. Initially, when I assumed control of the business, I was primarily focused on retaining existing customers and didn't fully grasp the dynamics at play. In the process, I lost orders from several mandals and workers. However, with time, I became aware of the situation and started taking precautionary measures to address it."

Rebuilding the business

It was undoubtedly a challenging journey, but one that offered invaluable life lessons. Reflecting on her past mistakes and the recognition she gained, Reshma shared, "Last year, I made several errors. I had a limited workforce and couldn't perform at my best. Some individuals doubted my abilities because I'm a woman. Yet, there were others who placed their trust in me and provided their support. However, this year brought a significant change. The experienced sculptors who had worked with my father returned, and together we crafted remarkable and exquisite murtis."

With an optimistic outlook, Reshma expressed her determination to "work diligently and carry forward her father's legacy."

Sharing statistics of Lord Ganesha idols she makes every year, Reshma Khatu said she has decided to make only 10-15 murtis. "Last year, I decided to make only 10-15 murtis and offer quality work. I have a family to look after and can't do more than that," she said.

The inspirational story behind Ganesh Chitra Mandir

Hema Bandekar from Ganesh Chitra Mandir in Chembur had a similar introduction to the industry. She explained, "The studio was founded by my father in 1969. I became part of the studio in 2001, and today, my four sisters and I collectively manage the studio."

Hema Bandekar with sisters at workshop

Giving a glimpse of the struggles she faced while getting orders for murtis, Hema said, "My father had heart surgery in 2005. After that, we started working in the studio. In 2015, when our father passed away, people didn't show faith in us. Sarvajanik Ganeshosav mandals and people who have been buying murtis from us for over 50 years were there, but we didn't get new orders. People used to ask how girls could manage the business. But in 2017, when we showed our work and hard work, everyone appreciated it and our troubles subsided. Their faith, support, and love helped us flourish and expand the business."

It wasn't only customers who departed; some of the workers also left following her father's passing. Hema explained, "They were reluctant to work under women. Nonetheless, we are fortunate to have a few dedicated workers who have been part of our team for the past 40 years."

Hema crafts approximately 100 large Lord Ganesha idols and 200-250 smaller ones. She added, "The tallest murti we create stands at approximately 18 feet."

It's certainly not a cakewalk or bed of roses for these women, but with determination and perseverance, they are taking in their stride to bring about a change.