Panchamukhi Ganesha - Varanasi Woodcraft

The "Panchamukhi Ganesha" is the embodiment of all potencies as it represents the Pancha Kosha viz Annamaya Kosha (flesh body), Pranamaya KOsha (breath or energy body), Manomayakosha (the mental body), Vighnamaykosha (the body of the upper conciousness), Anandamayakosha (The body of the Cosmic Bliss). This specimen is made of eucalyptus wood which is like putty in the hands of the artisan as he shapes the intricate elements of the idol. 

Imperfections and variations in the product cannot be termed as defects, as these are intrinsic to the handmade process.

Colors in the photograph may vary from the actual product due to studio lighting.

Ships within 10 days.

About Varanasi Wood and Lacquerware

Indian wooden toys have a timeless tradition. They have been the beacons that have guided children into adulthood since ancient times. Vibrant colours, smooth lacquer finish, soft and supple wood, impeccable craftsmanship – these are some of the attributes of the craft practised by artisans who make the Varanasi Wood and Lacquerware products. Varanasi is fabled to be the oldest continuously inhabited city. This ancient lodestar has been guiding humanity both spiritually and philosophically for millennia. It is no surprise therefore that myriad arts and crafts have developed in this human melee called Varanasi.

The motifs used are mainly religious, cultural, flora and fauna, village life et al. The figurines depict Hindu gods and motifs from the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Different types of woods are used to make these toys; notably eucalyptus, sheesham, gulhar and kaima. The wood of preference was Coraiya (Keria); however due to a ban on felling of Coraiya trees, this type of wood is no longer in use. Each type of wood has innate characteristics that impart different qualities to the end product eg. Gulhar is used to make light weight toys as it is less dense. The colours used are all non-toxic and acrylic based poster colours. The lacquer finish is imparted using a lacquer stick. Lacquer is made from a natural plant sap that is treated, dyed and dried into sticks. This colouring technique imparts a very hard, durable and aesthetically pleasing surface finish to the end product.