Hyderabad's Balapur Ganesh Laddu auction sets record at Rs 35 lakh

Hyderabad: The renowned Balapur Ganesh Laddu auction concluded on a historic note this year, with devotee Lingala Dasharatha Goud securing the sacred prasad (Laddu) for a record-breaking Rs 35.3 lakhs on Saturday. The fiercely competitive auction, a highlight of the festivities, saw intense bidding between locals, non-locals, and NRIs, continuing a 31-year-old tradition that began in 1994 with a modest Rs 450.

Subsequently, the event began after the last puja was completed and the grand village procession of Balapur Ganesh culminated at Bodrai. At 9:30 am, amid heavy security arrangements and the presence of a large number of devotees, the auction commenced with 38 registered participants. Each had deposited Rs 5,000 with the Utsava Samiti to enter the bidding war.

Speaking on the occasion, Lingala Dasharatha Goud said, “Since 2019 every year, I have been coming to Balapur to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesh. I like laddu very much. For six years, I have been participating in the bidding. God has blessed me with laddu this time. I am very happy”.

This year's auction surpassed the previous record set just last year, when Kolan Shankar Reddy won the laddu for Rs 30.1 lakhs. The price has been increasing annually, reflecting the growing devotion and prestige associated with possessing the Balapur laddu.

The Utsava Samiti had made all necessary arrangements, ensuring the event was conducted smoothly and securely. Special pujas were performed in the morning, adding to the spiritual fervour of the occasion.