This Hyderabad Ganpati arrived covered in 24-karat gold and 3,83,800 American diamonds, now ‘Lee-Chee Ka Raja’ has become one of the country’s biggest Ganeshotsav attractions |

Hyderabad’s Ganeshotsav is gaining all the attention in 2026. It is being called as the new glittering attraction this year. And it is not just the size of the idol, but also the crores worth decoration which is attracting people. On September 9, Lee-Chee Ka Raja arrived in Begum Bazar with an astonishing 24-karat gold-plated finish and a reported 3,83,800 American diamonds. It has become an unexpected visual spectacle. Videos and photographs from the procession show crowds gathered around the idol while all its gold-and-diamond glitter its way.A Ganpati that looks more like a piece of super expensive jewelleryLee-Chee Ka Raja, this is looking more like a gorgeous piece of jewellery, all because the idol is covered with 24-karat gold plating and decorated with 3,83,800 American diamonds. The idol created a shimmering appearance when viewed under the pandal and procession lights. Unlike some of Hyderabad’s famous giant Ganpati idols, Lee-Chee Ka Raja has made its mark through ornamentation, detailing and craftsmanship .Inspired by Mumbai and TirupatiThere is another reason the idol looks distinctive. Its design combines the visual grandeur associated with Mumbai’s Lalbaugcha Raja with elements inspired by Tirupati Balaji.For travellers, this makes the visit interesting beyond the usual Ganpati darshan. You are essentially seeing a Hyderabad interpretation that brings together visual influences associated with two of India’s most recognisable devotional traditions.Why Begum Bazar makes the visit even more interesting

Lee-Chee Ka Raja

Begum Bazar is among Hyderabad’s historic commercial areas. It is located close to the city’s old heritage core. A trip to see Lee-Chee Ka Raja can therefore easily become a half-day Hyderabad heritage-and-food outing rather than a standalone temple or pandal visit.The nearby old-city circuit includes Charminar, Laad Bazaar, Chowmahalla Palace and Salar Jung Museum. Telangana Tourism lists these among the prime attractions of Hyderabad’s heritage landscape.How travellers can plan the visitIf you are coming from another part of Hyderabad, public transport can be a practical option, particularly because festival crowds and idol processions can make driving into the old city slower.The MGBS Metro Station is close to the Begum Bazar/Afzalgunj area. The official Hyderabad Metro station information also lists Charminar, Salar Jung Museum and other old-city landmarks among the station’s important catchment areas.What makes Lee-Chee Ka Raja worth seeing

Hyderabad [Telangana], Sep 14 (ANI): A view of the 24-karat-gold-plated Lord Ganesha idol with over 3.8 lakh American diamonds installed at Begum Bazar’s Lichi Pearl Set Jewels on Ganesh Chaturthi (or Vinayaka Chaturthi), in Hyderabad on Monday. (ANI Video Grab)

Hyderabad already has several famous Ganpati celebrations, but Lee-Chee Ka Raja offers a different kind of experience. This year, it’s reported 3.83 lakh American diamonds, 24-karat gold plating and Lalbaugcha Raja-Tirupati Balaji-inspired design make it a must watch.For photographers, it is a striking festival sight. And for travellers, it offers another reason to explore Hyderabad’s historic Begum Bazar and the old-city neighbourhoods around it.