Atharv Kiran Ghosalkar – Aakhnikar from Pen
When we talk about Ganpati Bappa, the first thing that comes in mind is his eyes. The moment when the idol gets its eyes painted, it feels like Bappa is finally here, looking at us with love and blessings. That is the work of an Aakhnikar. And among those young artists who are fully devoted to this work is Atharv Kiran Ghosalkar from Pen, Maharashtra.
The Work of an Aakhnikar in Ganpati Eyes Painting
Being an Aakhnikar is not easy. It needs a steady hand, calm mind and lots of patience. The eyes are the most delicate part of the idol, and one small mistake can change the whole expression of the Murti. People say the idol feels alive only after the eyes are painted, and Atharv takes that responsibility very seriously.
For him, it is not just a painting job, it is devotion. He believes when he paints the eyes, it is like connecting the idol with the hearts of devotees.
Journey and Passion for Ganpati Eyes Painting
Atharv began to practice this work while balancing his college journey. Initially, he assisted elderly people and observed attentively their process of making the magic merely with a brush and colors. He would later attempt it himself and gradually learn to fill those eyes with emotions, be it peace, kindness, strength or joy.
Every idol is different, and Atharv Ghosalkar says every pair of eyes he paints teaches him something new. Unlike many who look at art as business, Atharv looks at it as seva, service to Bappa. He spends long hours, sometimes entire nights, finishing the work before Ganeshotsav begins.
The atmosphere in Pen during those months is full of energy – hundreds of artists, workshops, idols in every street. In between all that, Atharv sits quietly, focusing only on Bappa’s eyes, adding life to them with each stroke.
Keeping Tradition Alive Through Ganpati Eyes Painting
In today’s fast world, where machines and shortcuts are taking over, the traditional hand-painting of idols is slowly reducing. But people like Atharv Ghosalkar keep the roots strong. He believes that no matter how modern times become, the soul of Pen’s Ganesh idols will always remain in the hands of its artists.
By continuing as an Aakhnikar, he is also carrying forward the legacy of his town and elders.
A Simple Man with a Big Devotion
The thing that makes Atharv special is not only his skill, but his attitude. He is modest, earthy and never tired of learning new things. He never runs after publicity or show-off his work. Instead, he feels happy when devotees look at the idol and say “Bappa’s eyes are so beautiful, so real.” That smile on their faces is his real reward.