Your mama always said POP culture was bad and she was right. By POP, she meant Plaster of Paris. Ganesh idols during this auspicious time are made using this inauspicious material. Studies have shown a steep increase in the levels of heavy metals, acids, pH and consequently, a decrease in dissolved oxygen among other things in water bodies due to immersion of such idols. Wondering who’s affected by this water? Marine life. But also, you. This toxic water makes it’s way to us through the water we drink.
FYI: According to BBMP, residents of Bangalore will be fined for immersing a Ganesha idol made of POP. (Is your city also following such policies? Tell us.)
You’re right, the fix is as simple as a switch. But, where can we find such a switch? Don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you, here:
1. DIY: Make your own Ganesha. Here’s a video (with 13M+ views) to get inspired-
2. Get it Online: Here are some cool online stores-
1. Tree Ganesha: https://www.treeganesha.com/
2. My Pooja Box: https://www.mypoojabox.in/collections/eco-friendly-ganesha
3. My Samskruti: https://www.mysamskruti.com/product-category/spiritual-needs/eco-ganesha/
4. O My Ganesha: https://www.omyganesha.com/
3. Retail Stores: If you happen to be in these cities, here are some places that are known for selling eco-friendly Ganpati idols-
Mumbai:
- My Eco Ganesh, Andheri(E). Phone: 96531 30952
- Akar Arts, Malad(W). Phone: 98694 56136
- Sprouts Earth Shop, Malad (E). Phone: 98201 40254
- Cowdung Idols, Khargar, Navi Mumbai. Phone: 79777 28879
- Pavittram Organics, Kandivali Link Road. Phone: 98336 64750
Pune:
- eCoexist, Sanjay Park. Phone: 95610 08225
- O My Ganesha, Hadapsar. Phone: 77580 36995
- Desai Bandhu Ambewale, Kothrud. Phone: 020-25453565
- Shree Ganesh Kala Kendra, Sadashiv Peth. Phone: 98505 59397
- Morya Arts, Aundh. Phone: 95035 90909
Bangalore:
- Benaka, Sudhama Nagar. Phone: 99019 35351
- Mudpiez, Bannerghatta Road. Phone: 63646 52244
- Manjunatha Ganesha and Gowri Idols Works, New Pottery Town. Phone: 99455 77442
- A Hundred Hands, MG Road. Phone: 98450 08482
- Mother Nature, Bannerghatta Road/Mantri Mall/Domlur. Phone: 080-25125131
Comment below to share more ways to celebrate a green Ganesh Chaturthi.
Happy Ganesh Chaturthi and Happy Switching! 😀
