ganeshotsav

This Ganeshotsav, Mumbai’s mandals embraced eco-innovation — crafting idols from mud, roots, rope, paper, nutshells, and husk, proving tradition can protect nature.

Mumbai’s famed Lalbaugcha Raja stands as a symbol of devotion, with the Kambli family’s artistry and craftsmanship bringing the beloved idol to life year after year.

A royal physician and freedom fighter, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari inspired Lokmanya Tilak to turn Ganeshotsav into a festival that instilled nationalistic fervour among Indians to fight the British.

Bengaluru's Hulimavu lake was choked with idol debris and other non-biodegradable waste.

The mandal that usually spends over Rs 5 lakh for extravagant festivities like fancy lights, musical fountains, dhol-tasha troupes and music - has reduced it drastically to a mere 20 percent of the original cost.

With the public becoming increasingly conscious about the fragile state of the environment, many are doing their bit to ensure that they only opt for eco-friendly idols and decorations. Taking this thought forward, many mandals have also decided to join the bandwagon and go green.

Nilesh Tupe, an auditor and cow shelter owner in Nerul, is helping devotees go green by selling Ganpati idols made from cow dung.