'DNA' Eco Ganesha award for top 20 green mandals

The DNA Eco Ganesha drive is entering an exciting new phase. The campaign is aimed at inspiring Mumbaikars to go green during Ganpati festival and to create awareness about safer options.

In the first phase of the drive, DNA readers donated newspapers to build the Eco Ganesha idol. Over 5,000kg was donated by thousands of readers and housing societies. In phase II, 250 Shadu Mati clay idols were distributed across Mumbai. Milind Dale, on receiving the idol, said: “Often, proof is required to trigger a change in the system. This drive has demonstrated that clay idols are indeed still available, and look beautiful.” The shape of these idols was guided by principles detailed by the Hindu Jan Jagruti Samiti.

In the third phase, the eight-feet papier mache idol (courtesy Aniruddha Bapu Foundation) and Shadu Mati clay idols were installed and worshipped at Oberoi Mall in Malad. Over 40,000 daily visitors at the mall saw the idols, prayed to them and many also signed the pledge wall.

These idols were immersed on Friday, with people vowing to bring home an eco-friendly idol next year. The decorations and immersion procession were carefully monitored to ensure no ecologically damaging materials, such as Thermocol and plastic, were used.

In the final leg of the campaign, over 120 mandals have been shortlisted for adopting eco-friendly practices. As per the criteria laid down by the pollution control board, a DNA team spanned the city to judge pandals first-hand.

A qualified jury will decide the top 20 pandals and honour them on September 25 in an award ceremony to be covered by Zee News.