EMBRACING ECO-FRIENDLY GANESH

‘Transforming Goa's Society and Environment

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As the vibrant festival of Ganesh Chaturthi approaches this September, the state of Goa, like many regions across India, prepares to welcome Lord Ganesha into homes, temples, and public spaces. This festival, rich in cultural heritage and spiritual significance, has also evolved to reflect contemporary concerns-most notably, the urgent need for environmental sustainability. The adoption of eco-friendly Ganesh idols in Goa has become a powerful movement, reshaping not only the festival's traditional practices but also the region's environmental landscape and social consciousness.

The Shift Towards Sustainability Historically, Ganesh idols were crafted from natural clay (shadu) and painted with organic dyes. However, over the years, the demand for larger, more elaborate idols led to the widespread use of plaster of Paris (POP), synthetic paints, and other non-biodegradable materials.

These materials, while allowing for grandeur, come with significant environmental costs. Pop idols, when immersed in water bodies, do not dissolve easily, leading to water pollution, harming aquatic life, and disrupting ecosystems. Toxic chemicals from paints further exacerbate the environmental impact, contaminating water and posing health risks to both humans and animals.

In response to these concerns, the eco-friendly Ganesh movement has gained momentum in Goa. Local artisans, environmental groups, and community leaders have rallied around the cause, promoting the use of idols made from natural clay, papier-mâché, and other biodegradable materials. These idols, when immersed, dissolve naturally without leaving harmful residues, preserving the purity of Goa's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.