Ganesh idol that grows into a tree

Wondering if one could do away with Ganesh Nimarjan and save the environment? There is good news and it comes in the form of Dattadri Kothur, a Mumbai-based artist who has come up with an innovative idea of moulding a Ganesh idol with natural red soil that transforms itself into a tree. On the day of visarjan, seeds (mostly ladies finger seeds) are placed inside the belly of the idol.

There is no immersion of the idol in a water body but water is poured over the idol. Once the Ganesh idol dissolves, the seeds sprout and plants start to grow. Dattadri Kothur says, “I was always fascinated by Ganesh idols and at the same time want to save the environment from pollution. I came up with this idea last year and it proved successful.”

Last year quite a few people bought the Ganesh idols and orders have started pouring in from other cities as well says Dattadri. Meghna, a resident of Sainikpuri said, “My aunt who lives in Pune showed me photos of the Ganesh idol that she bought last year and now in its place there are plants. My aunt is bringing one for me and our family decided to celebrate this year in an eco-friendly manner.”

Dattadri has been making Ganesh idols for the last seven years and was always planning to do something that is eco-friendly. He says, “We use natural materials and what is important is once the immersion which is by watering the idol is done, in a matter of a week plants grow which gives life. Children as well as adults find it very satisfying and there is a sense of gratification.”

The concept is fast catching on in Mumbai and Pune but the news is spreading fast and people from other cities are getting the idols through friends. Dattadri does not see it as a commercial venture but as a social obligation. “Lord Ganesha is known to remove all obstacles and the deterioration of the environment is the greatest threat to humanity today. If more people get inspired by the idea and even develop it further it would be good,” says Dattadri.