Funds for a Greater Cause
The proceeds from the auction will be donated to RV Diya Charitable Trust, which channels support to over 42 NGOs across Hyderabad. These organisations work in fields such as elderly care, menstrual hygiene, women’s empowerment, education, nutrition, medical aid, and animal welfare, collectively touching more than 10,000 lives.
“What makes this event special is not just the excitement of the auction, but the sense of community it builds. Every rupee raised goes directly to NGOs without any administrative costs,” said Abhay Deshpande, the managing trustee of the community. He emphasized that volunteers run the entire initiative, ensuring transparency and impact.
A Tradition of Growth
The Ganesh laddu auction at Richmond Villas started modestly in 2018 with bids reaching just ₹25,000. Over the years, its popularity and charitable impact grew significantly. The laddu fetched ₹18.75 lakh in 2019, ₹27.3 lakh in 2020, ₹41 lakh in 2021, ₹60 lakh in 2022, and an impressive ₹1.26 crore in 2023. This year’s ₹2.32 crore has now set a new record.
Organisers said the tradition combines devotion with philanthropy, making it a highlight of the festive season in Hyderabad. The growing value of the laddu reflects not only rising enthusiasm but also deeper community engagement in charitable causes.
The Laddu’s Sacred Role
For ten days of the festival, the laddu is placed before the Ganesh idol as a sacred offering. Special care is taken to ensure hygiene and preservation. Once the auction concludes, the sweet is divided and shared as prasad among villa residents and devotees.
“With a 10-kg laddu this year, blessings can be shared with even more people. It is both a religious and humanitarian gesture,” added Mr. Deshpande. The auction thus symbolizes both devotion and collective responsibility toward society.
