This Ganesh Chaturthi, many pandals across India, especially in Mumbai, are choosing an eco-friendly approach. These eco-friendly Lord Ganesha idols cause no harm to the environment, ensuring that the festival is celebrated with full fervour, keeping the environment in mind. We came across one such sustainable idol in Vashi is known as ‘Vashicha Samrat’. Read to know more about it.
Vashicha Samrat’s Tissue Idol
Ganeshotsav in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, this year caught everyone’s attention. When we visited there to seek the blessings of Vashicha Samrat, we came to know that the entire idol is made of tissue paper. To let devotees experience how light the murti is, the pandal authorities have also kept a small tissue idol on the side that people can lift in their hands. This innovative idea is not unique, but it highlights how people are now focusing more on eco-friendly celebrations.
On the visarjan day, when this idol will be taken to immerse in water, it will dissolve quickly. The process will be much faster for the environment as compared to POP idols. It will also cause less water pollution, showing that festivals can be celebrated while keeping the environment safe. Another Lord Ganesha idol in Maharashtra, known for its eco-friendly approach, is Raja Tejukayacha. Since 2019, this idol has been prepared with paper, gum, coconut husk, and powder. For the painting, they use natural colours.
Also Read: I Wanted An Easy Life For Our Kids,&; Shankar Mahadevan And Sangeetha On Living In Vashi
Vashicha Samrat’s Pandal Decoration
Another highlight of the Vashicha Samrat is the decoration of the pandal. It is adorned with canvas showcasing all the forts of Maharashtra that have been recognised by UNESCO. One of the paintings, featuring Sindhudurg Fort, was recently sold as well. Along with the tissue idol and decoration, this year, the pandal took the celebration to a whole different level. They are not only promoting eco-friendly celebrations but are also showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
Besides Vashicha Samrat, you can also visit pandals like Lalbaugcha Raja, Khetwadicha Ganraj, Ganesh Galli Mumbaicha Raja, Chinchpoklicha Chintamani and Parelcha Raja to take blessings from Bappa.
Which Ganeshotsav pandal did you visit this year? Let us know in the comments below!
Also Read: Why Does Lalbaugcha Raja Stop At Hindustani Masjid Every Year During Visarjan?
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/vashi_cha_samrat & Deeplata Garde