Eco-friendly Ganesha idols in high demand this season

This time of the year, the lanes of Kosapet are lined with huge idols of Ganesha – in a range of eye-popping colours and avatars. In one corner, a small pushcart lined with idols – from a pint-sized to a foothigh version – are neatly lined up. In a narrow lane, groups of men are busy moulding idols, which will take pride of place during the Vinayaka Chaturthi celebrations. 

Prakash, an auto-driver, who brings these massive idols from Andhra Pradesh during this season, said people are looking for eco-friendly options. “We have used paper, which will easily dissolve when immersed in water. The paints too are easily washed off,” he said, adding that this time, the demand for idols has dropped. 

Seedball Ganesha, an idol made using organic compounds, has become popular among Chennaiites, said Radhika Miglani of A2 Naturals, which retails these idols out of Bengaluru. “We have had hundreds of orders coming in from Chennai. These idols are made out of organic compounds. This is mixed with chemical-free binding  agent and made by farmers. We include a seed of either moringa or marigold, inside these 7.5 cm idols. These idols can be immersed in water or planted in the soil,” she said. 

Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) has said that only idols made from clay or other eco-friendly materials will be allowed to be immersed. However, Mani, who was assiduously crafting idols using Plaster of Paris, is oblivious to the order. He is not the only one. “I have not heard any ban on Plaster of Paris. Everyone here is using it to make the idols,” he said. 

A source from TNPCB said, “This year, there are no manufacturers of idols in Plaster of Paris, which is a pollutant. Most idols are being made from papier mâché or clay. We can only control the industries. The onus also lies on the people. We have also created awareness, asking people to celebrate the festival in an eco-friendly manner.”