Ganesh Chaturthi is an auspicious and significant Hindu festival celebrated every year in India. This year, we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 on Saturday, September 7, 2024. The day marks the birth of the Elephant God, who represents wisdom and prosperity. During this time, devotees worship Lord Ganesha and partake in prayers, pujas, rituals and traditions, seeking his blessings. With less than a month to go for the festival, the preparations, which include home decorations, arranging for Lord Ganesha’s idol, preparing modaks and decorating the pandal for Ganpati, have already begun in full swing. However, as we gear up to celebrate the festival with a lot of fervour, joy and devotion, it is also important to take note of the impact it has on our surroundings. This year, opt to go green and choose sustainable materials and an eco-friendly way to celebrate the festival. Here are some tips on how to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 in an eco-friendly way. When Is Ganesh Chaturthi 2024? Know Vinayaka Chaturthi Dates, Shubh Muhurat, History, Significance and Rituals To Celebrate the 10-Day Ganeshotsav Festival Dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

Tips To Celebrate Eco-Friendly Ganesh Chaturthi

  • Opt for a Ganesha idol that is made of eco-friendly materials like terracotta or clay. They are easily available, biodegradable and can dissolve without causing any harm to the environment.

  • If you intend on making your own Ganesha idol, opt for soil (mitti) as it can always be assimilated by plants or trees, or papier mache.

  • Avoid using idols with toxic colours that may include mercury and lead. This can harm the surroundings.

  • Usually, pandals are decorated with heavy lighting, which consumes a lot of electricity. Be responsible. Use the lights only when really required.

  • When decorating rangolis, use items like turmeric, gulaal, rice powder or henna, as they do not pose a threat to the environment.

  • Say no to plastic bags. Avoid using plastic bags especially when offering prasad items, fruits or any other offering. Instead opt for biodegradable plates or sheets.

  • Instead of immersing the Ganesha idol in a natural source of water like a river, sea, or lake, make an artificial tank for the immersion. Are Ganesh Jayanti and Ganesh Chaturthi the Same? Know the Difference Between Maghi Ganesh Jayanti and Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations.

Ganesh Chaturthi is a major festival, however by following these simple eco-friendly tips, anyone and everyone can celebrate without causing any harm to the environment. Share photos and videos on social media to encourage others as well to opt for more eco-friendly practices and celebrations.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2024 09:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).