Panchaloha idols are traditional Hindu sculptures made from a blend of five metals: gold, silver, copper, zinc and iron. Several artists in India excel in making such idols. The Panchaloha idols are often used in Hindu temples and households for worship. They are believed to bring good fortune and blessings to devotees. The artists from Jangareddygudem town of Eluru district in Andhra Pradesh have now mastered the skill of making Panchaloha idols. They market their idols in the district and other states. Jangareddygudem town consists of various artists who have excelled in making panchaloha idols. They are skilled in making panchaloha idols out of copper and brass. There are many such artists in this region, and it can be said that their popularity is also high. Many families are making their living in the manufacturing of these Panchalohas. They are engaged in making attractive shapes out of copper and brass. Apart from idols, they also make arches for temples and sheaths for flagpoles in various designs. The devotees in Telugu state often buy idols from these artists.
While speaking to Local 18 on this occasion, artisans said that they learned the skill of making idols with copper and brass from their ancestors. They called it a tradition. Panchaloha idols and arches made by them are still there in the nearby temples. One of the artisans said that the prices are fixed depending on the designs of the idol. This profession has helped them in the survival of the family, added the artisans. In the past, they used to make pots and rice jars of copper. To advance further, they evolved their skill to make arches for temples. In following the tradition of their ancestors, the artisans of Jangareddygudem town have advanced their skills to earn fame.
Panchaloha idols can represent a variety of deities including Lord Ganesh and Goddess Lakshmi. They can be made to order and can take weeks to produce.
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