The Maharashtra government on Wednesday has informed the Bombay High Court through an official affidavit that household Ganpati idols will be immersed only in artificial ponds going forward.
The move aims to address environmental concerns, particularly pollution caused by Plaster of Paris (POP) idols.
According to a statement from the Maharashtra Culture Ministry, public Ganeshotsav Mandals—which use larger idols—will continue their traditional practice of immersion in the sea, a ritual followed for over a century.
Measures To Curb Pollution
The government stated in the affidavit that it plans to implement several pollution control measures during the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi festival. These steps are based on recommendations made by a committee led by eminent scientist Dr. Anil Kakodkar.
The matter is scheduled for hearing before the Bombay High Court on Thursday.
Public Ganeshotsav Declared State Festival
Earlier, on July 10, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly officially declared the Public Ganeshotsav as the “Maharashtra State Festival.” The announcement was made by Cultural Affairs Minister Advocate Ashish Shelar, who emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and historical significance of the festival.
“Public Ganeshotsav was started in Maharashtra in 1893 by Lokmanya Tilak. This festival is deeply rooted in social, national, and linguistic pride, as well as freedom and self-respect. It continues in the same spirit today. It is a matter of pride and honour for Maharashtra,” Shelar stated.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the festival’s cultural importance and global recognition.
Legal Challenges
Minister Shelar noted that the Mahayuti government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has acted promptly to overcome legal obstacles and challenges posed by individuals attempting to restrict public celebrations.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2025
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayak Chaturthi, is a 10-day festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles and lord of new beginnings. This year, the festival will begin on Wednesday, August 27, and conclude on Anant Chaturdashi.
Celebrations include vibrant processions, decorated pandals, devotional music, and traditional offerings. The festival is observed widely across India and by the Indian diaspora worldwide, blending spiritual devotion with rich cultural expression.
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