Creating an eco-friendly Ganesha idol is a wonderful way to celebrate the festival while being environmentally responsible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own eco-friendly Ganesha idol:

Materials you’ll need:

• Clay or Shadu Mati: This is the primary material for your idol, and it’s eco-friendly and biodegradable.
• Water-based colors: Opt for natural, water-based colors instead of synthetic ones.
• Natural materials for decoration: You can use leaves, flowers, twigs, and other natural items for decorating your idol.
• Steps to make an eco-friendly Ganesha idol: Prepare your workspace: Find a clean and spacious area to work on your idol-making project. Lay down newspapers or a plastic sheet to keep things tidy.
• Shape the idol: Start by forming the basic shape of Lord Ganesha using clay or shadu mati. If you’re new to sculpting, you can start with a simple design.
• Detailing: Add finer details to your idol, such as the facial features, arms, and any accessories like a modak (sweet), a lotus, or a snake. Be creative!
• Let it dry: Allow your Ganesha idol to air dry naturally. This might take a few days, depending on the size and thickness of the idol. Ensure it is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
• Painting: Once your idol is dry, use water-based colors to paint it. You can go for traditional colors or get creative with your color choices. Make sure to let each layer of paint dry before adding another.
• Decorate: After painting, use natural materials like flower petals, leaves, and twigs to decorate your Ganesha idol. You can also add eco-friendly jewelry or accessories if desired.
• Puja and immersion: Perform a traditional puja (prayer ceremony) to invoke the deity’s blessings. When it’s time for immersion, take your eco-friendly Ganesha to a body of water, preferably in a bucket or tub of water at home, or a community tank designated for immersion. Let the idol dissolve naturally. Avoid using plaster of Paris (PoP) idols as they are harmful to the environment.

Remember, the spirit of eco-friendly celebrations is to minimize the environmental impact. By making and immersing an eco-friendly Ganesha idol, you contribute to the conservation of our environment while honoring a cherished tradition.