World’s Smallest Gold Ganesh Idols: Master Artisan Bhagwandas Kharote Showcases 275 Miniature Golden Ganesh Murtis in Pune
World’s Smallest Gold Ganesh Idols: Master Artisan Bhagwandas Kharote Showcases 275 Miniature Golden Ganesh Murtis in Pune
From one millimetre to barely an inch, world-record holding artist showcases 275 intricate golden Ganpati idols in Pune
This Ganeshotsav, Pune witness a one-of-its-kind exhibition of miniature golden Ganesh idols, crafted with breathtaking precision by world record-holding artist Bhagwandas Kharote. The event that started from Friday, August 29 will run till Tuesday, September 2, at the Raja Ravi Varma Art Gallery, Ghole Road.
Kharote, a Nashik-based jeweller, engineer and gemologist, has spent decades perfecting the art of crafting micro-idols in gold. His creations, some measuring as little as 0.76 millimetres, are so intricate that they can only be viewed under a microscope. In total, he has sculpted 275 idols, each depicting Lord Ganesha in diverse forms from a tabla player, shehnai artist and harmonium player to a Ganesh holding the national flag or seated gracefully on a swing. Some idols are even mounted on gemstones ranging from pearls to emeralds.
The artist’s meticulous process combines traditional goldsmithing with yogic concentration techniques such as pranayama and trataka meditation, allowing him to work with remarkable steadiness for hours at a stretch. Importantly, Kharote has fashioned all his tools by hand, eschewing modern technology to preserve the authenticity of the craft.
Kharote’s body of work has already secured him a place in record books. He holds the distinction of creating the world’s smallest golden Ganesh idol at 0.06 millimetres, as well as fitting 256 distinct Ganesh forms within a single square inch. His micro-sculptures also include the world’s tiniest golden teapot and cup.
Over the years, he has received honours such as the National Jewellery Design Award, Lokmat’s Indus of Nashik award, and recognition from the India Book of Records and Oh My God Book of Records. His artistry has been appreciated by leaders including Bal Thackeray, Manohar Joshi, Pramod Navalkar and the Shankaracharya of Karveer Peeth.
Visitors to the Pune exhibition will be able to marvel at these golden wonders, though most require magnification for their details to be truly appreciated. Tickets are priced at ₹30, making the event accessible to schoolchildren and the general public alike.
The unique showcase is sponsored by Siddhivinayak Group, with support from Indriya Jewellers and blessings from the revered Shrimant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Trust. This exhibition promises to be both a devotional and artistic highlight of the season — blending spirituality, craftsmanship and innovation in gold.
