MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has informed the Bombay High Court that large Ganesh idols from public Ganeshotsav Mandals will continue to be immersed in the sea, adhering to a century-old tradition, while incorporating strict environmental safeguards. This decision, outlined in an affidavit submitted on Wednesday, follows the court’s directive to clarify the state’s stance on idol immersion during the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival, which begins August 27.
The affidavit specifies that smaller household Ganesh idols, up to a certain height, will be immersed in artificial ponds to minimize environmental impact. This approach aims to balance cultural practices with ecological responsibility, particularly in response to concerns about Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols, which are not easily biodegradable.
Last month, the Bombay High Court lifted a ban on the manufacture and sale of PoP idols but emphasized that such idols should not be immersed in natural water bodies. The earlier restriction had threatened the livelihoods of numerous sculptors, prompting state Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar to commission a study by the Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission. A panel, led by scientist, analyzed the environmental impact of PoP idols and provided recommendations that informed the government’s affidavit.
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Advocate General Birendra Saraf presented the state’s policy before a bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne. The government reiterated its commitment to preserving the traditional sea immersion of large idols while implementing measures to mitigate pollution. The hearing, which addresses a public interest litigation challenging PoP idol immersion, continues on Thursday.