Balapur Ganesh Laddu Fetches Record ₹39 Lakh at Annual Auction

The iconic 21-kilogram Balapur Ganesh laddu sold for a record ₹39 lakh on Friday, September 25, 2026, marking a significant increase over the previous year's record. Sama Praneeth Reddy, founder of Urban Group Private Limited, secured the winning bid during the annual auction held in Rangareddy district, Telangana. The final price represents a ₹4 lakh increase from the ₹35 lakh bid recorded in 2025.

The auction, a central feature of the Balapur Ganesh festivities, saw participation from nine registered bidders. Before the proceedings commenced, members of the Balapur Ganesh Utsav Samithi offered prayers to Lord Ganesh, specifically seeking relief from a regional rainfall deficiency. The event, which followed a ceremonial tour of the 18-foot-tall idol through the lanes of Balapur, experienced a delay of approximately one hour before the bidding began.

In a separate event, a smaller confection fetched a significantly higher amount at a residential community auction. Participants in the Balapur auction were required to meet advance deposit and registration requirements.

The Balapur laddu auction has evolved significantly since its inception in 1994, when the offering was first sold for ₹450 to farmer Kolan Mohan Reddy. Over the decades, the auction has transformed into a major cultural event in Hyderabad, with values rising steadily as the laddu became a symbol of the local festivities. Following the auction, the idol began its 18-km Shobha Yatra journey toward Hussain Sagar for immersion.

As the city observes the main phase of Ganesh idol immersion, authorities have implemented extensive safety measures. The Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Agency (HYDRAA) has deployed 234 trained swimmers across major immersion points, including 150 personnel at Hussain Sagar working in three shifts. Additionally, 51 Disaster Response Force teams have been stationed to manage emergencies and assist devotees. HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath confirmed that all departments are coordinating to ensure the immersion process remains orderly. The proceeds from the Balapur auction are traditionally allocated toward temple-related activities and development projects within the Balapur area.