State should ban non-eco friendly idols: Raveena Tandon Thadani

Three years ago, I started bringing Ganesha home during the festival for the fulfilment of a mannat seeking blessings for our new home. The first year I bought a normal idol as I wasn't aware of the eco-friendly option. But every year after that, I have been buying idols from Dhoop, which makes eco-friendly Ganeshas.

I watch the coverage of the festival celebrations at celeb homes and wonder why they don't use eco-friendly idols. They should set an example, I feel. It is their responsibility as public figures who are widely followed.

Moreover, the state should ban all Ganpati idols that are not eco-friendly as the festival's celebrations have only increased in the last 10 years. This move by the state would be a major step in environmental conservation. Like they banned the use of plastic bags. Of course, initially, people may not like it if such a step is taken, but to bring in big reforms, you need to initiate such steps. Sensible, educated and intelligent people realise that besides blessings, you're doing it for a cause - to save Mother Earth. She is, after all, one of our goddesses, too.

Every shubh thing starts with Ganpati but once Ganeshotsav is over and the visarjan is done, some idols wash ashore and are left unattended. It's sad that we step over very same idols we worship, as most don't melt or dissolve. Isn't that being disrespectful to Ganpati? It's a beautiful festival so why not keep it that way and be blessed for doing that? I am sure Ganpati doesn't want lakes, rivers or the sea polluted in his name. He wouldn't be happy.

In conclusion, I believe that many people want to celebrate eco-Ganesha, but are not aware about it.