BMC Leads Sustainable Ganeshotsav with Natural Dye Initiative

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is intensifying efforts to ensure an environmentally sustainable Ganeshotsav and Navratri in 2025 by promoting the use of biodegradable, natural dyes for idol decoration. In a recent move, the BMC shared a list of approved natural dye manufacturers with idol artisans to encourage eco-friendly practices.

The initiative aligns with the BMC’s broader campaign to reduce the environmental impact of festival celebrations, particularly by phasing out Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols, which are non-biodegradable and harmful to water bodies post-immersion. The civic body has been providing free Shadu clay to idol makers and designating spaces for eco-friendly idol installations on a first-come, first-served basis.

While many households have already adopted natural dyes for smaller idols, artisans crafting larger idols face challenges. Sculptors note that creating towering Ganesh idols often exceeding 18 feet using only Shadu clay is difficult due to the material’s limitations. Naresh Dahibavkar, president of the Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti (BSGSS), emphasized the need for innovative solutions to balance tradition with sustainability.

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The BMC’s push follows a Bombay High Court directive on January 30, 2025, banning PoP idols to comply with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines, mid-day.com noted. To support artisans, the BMC is facilitating coordination meetings and offering free mandap permissions to promote eco-friendly idols.

Artisans like Ashok Kadu, president of the Paramparik Murtikar Hastakala Karagir Sangh, have long advocated for sustainable materials, highlighting the environmental harm caused by PoP idols that remain partially undissolved after immersion. The BMC’s approved list of natural dye manufacturers aims to further this transition, ensuring vibrant yet eco-conscious celebrations for Mumbai’s iconic festivals.