Ganeshotsav is a festival of joy, devotion, and togetherness, but traditional celebrations often cause environmental harm. Many idols are made of plaster of Paris (POP) and painted with toxic chemicals, which pollute water bodies and harm aquatic life when immersed. Eco-friendly idols made of clay, natural colors, or plantable seeds offer a sustainable alternative, reducing health hazards and environmental damage. Noise pollution from loudspeakers and traffic during processions can also affect the elderly, children, and patients. As healthcare professionals and responsible citizens, spreading awareness about using eco-friendly materials, reducing noise, and ensuring proper waste disposal can help. By celebrating Ganeshotsav in a mindful way, we can honor Lord Ganesha while protecting our planet and promoting community well-being.
Very true, Ganeshotsav is about devotion and joy, but we should also remember our responsibility towards nature. Using clay or plant-based idols, natural colors, and avoiding harmful POP idols can protect our rivers and aquatic life. Reducing noise and managing waste properly ensures that even elders, children, and patients are not disturbed. By celebrating in this eco-friendly way, we honor Lord Ganesha and also create a healthier environment for future generations.
True devotion to Lord Ganesha means removing obstacles.
Today, pollution is one of the biggest obstacles to health. Let’s celebrate responsibly with eco-friendly practices.
Happy Ganesh chaturthi!
I started liking clay ganesha especially home made with no colours and any other harmful chemicals, the day when my mom started to do it from 3 yrs to till now and forever. I will also feel it has more benefits and looks pretty than coloured ones
In my opinion, celebrating Ganeshotsav in an eco-friendly way is very important. While the festival brings joy and togetherness, the traditional use of POP idols and toxic paints harms the environment and aquatic life. I feel that clay idols, natural colors, and even plantable seed idols are a much better choice because they are safe and sustainable. Noise pollution during processions also needs to be controlled, as it affects children, the elderly, and patients. I believe that as responsible citizens, we should spread awareness about eco-friendly celebrations and take small steps like reducing waste, avoiding loudspeakers, and choosing natural materials. This way, we can enjoy the festival while also protecting our environment and health.
well said, even if you have ever heard how lord Ganesha was born u will understand that he was made by Parvati devi using nalugu pindi which is a traditional bath powder made with green gram flour, turmeric and sometimes sandalwood. it is environmentally friendly and look wise beautiful too but today we use POP and toxic colors to make it beautiful and compete to look like taller idol. we can make Ganesha idol at home using simple materials like clay soil , red soil, atta flour or wheat flour and even with Maida we can prepare. if u want it to look colorful u can even color it using watercolors.
Ganeshotsav is a beautiful festival, but we must think about its impact on nature. POP idols and loud noise can harm both the environment and people’s health. Using clay idols and natural colors is a better choice. As future healthcare professionals, we should spread awareness and support eco-friendly celebrations. It’s possible to enjoy the festival while also caring for our planet. Let’s celebrate with devotion and responsibility.
Well said. I believe that now days there are many eco-friendly options being adopted by many devotees. Mostly they prepare the idol at home and use earthen diya lamps.
Thanks for sharing, Plaster of Paris (PoP) Ganesh idols and toxic paints often contaminate water, harming aquatic life and human health. Cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Vijayawada are now shifting to eco-friendly alternatives like clay, seed-infused idols, and certified biodegradable ones. This year, Vijayawada even set a world record by crafting over 7,700 eco-friendly clay idols in one day!
