Balancing Faith & Ecology: Maharashtra Clears Way For Sea Immersion Of Big Ganesh Idols | India News

By Pune Media On Jul 23, 2025

Last Updated:July 23, 2025, 15:44 IST

The court was hearing the matter after concerns were raised over the ban on Plaster of Paris idols and the possible shift of all idol immersions to artificial ponds

The state assured the court that strict measures will be taken to ensure that the immersion process is eco-friendly. (PTI)

The Maharashtra government, in an important development for devotees and artisans alike, has informed the Bombay High Court that large Ganesh idols made by Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandals will continue to be immersed in the sea—just as tradition demands—while ensuring all necessary environmental safeguards.

The state’s assurance came through an affidavit submitted on Wednesday, marking a balanced approach between cultural faith and ecological responsibility. The court was hearing the matter after concerns were raised over the ban on Plaster of Paris (POP) idols and the possible shift of all idol immersions to artificial ponds.

The POP ban had threatened the livelihoods of thousands of idol makers across Maharashtra, who have been crafting these traditional idols for generations. Recognising this, cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar pushed for a scientific review. The Rajiv Gandhi Science and Technology Commission, under the guidance of noted scientist Dr Anil Kakodkar, studied POP’s impact on the environment and suggested solutions to manage its use responsibly.

Based on Kakodkar’s report, the Union ministry of environment submitted its findings, leading to the lifting of the blanket ban on POP idols. The high court then asked the state government to clearly state its policy on idol immersion, especially for the large idols worshipped by big Ganesh Mandals that draw lakhs of devotees.

On Wednesday, Advocate General Birendra Saraf appeared before Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne and presented the state’s stand. The government said big idols will be allowed to be immersed in the sea, upholding a legacy that Mumbai has cherished for over a century. However, domestic Ganesh idols below a certain height will still be immersed in artificial ponds, a practice that has helped reduce the load on natural water bodies.

The state also assured the court that strict measures will be taken to ensure that the immersion process is eco-friendly. This includes special zones, clean-up drives, and steps to prevent water pollution.

For thousands of Mandals, artisans, and devotees, this news comes as a big relief. It keeps alive the spirit of Mumbai’s Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav, while showing that tradition and environmental care can go hand in hand. The hearing on the matter will continue on Thursday.

Mayuresh Ganapatye

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa…Read More

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