A very eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi to you!

Here's how you can celebrate an eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi.

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: