In recent years, devotees have been exploring creative options for eco-friendly Ganpati idols crafted from food items, which can subsequently be distributed to those in need.
With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, devotees are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their beloved Ganpati Bappa in less than a week. Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated as Lord Ganesha’s birth anniversary, is a ten-day festival culminating in Visarjan when the lord is bid adieu. This year, the festivities will commence on September 18 and conclude on September 28. In India, the festival is particularly renowned and celebrated with great enthusiasm in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.
One of the primary highlights of Ganesh Chaturthi is the tradition of bringing Lord Ganesha’s idol home and subsequently immersing it in a water body after the ten-day festival. However, numerous idols are adorned with toxic paints containing heavy metals such as lead and mercury. These elements not only render the water unsafe for drinking but also contribute to water pollution. In recent years, devotees have ventured into crafting eco-friendly idols using safer materials and food items that can later be distributed to those in need.
It’s no surprise that Ganpati idols made from dry fruits, Belgian chocolate, or fruits are highly appreciated, as they can also be shared as prasad with the less fortunate and the general public.
In anticipation of the festival, here are five Ganesha idols that you can craft using food items.
- Wheat Dough Ganesha
To create this idol, simply prepare a quantity of wheat dough, adjusting it according to the desired size of the idol. Then, shape the dough into the required forms.
- Fruit Ganesha
You can use bananas, apples, papayas, cherries, and various other fruits to craft a unique Ganesha idol, allowing your creativity to guide you. Ensure you place your idol in a cooler area of your home to prevent the fruits from spoiling, so they remain useful throughout the festival.
- Dry Fruits
Dry fruits are an excellent choice for fashioning a Ganesha idol as they have a longer shelf life. They can later be distributed to the less fortunate. Dry fruits such as cashews, raisins, almonds, and walnuts can be utilized to create a distinctive Ganesha idol.
4. Chocolate Ganesha
A Ganesha idol crafted from Belgian chocolate gained widespread attention about a year ago. Afterward, this edible idol was transformed into a delectable chocolate shake and distributed to those in need. You can also consider attempting this creative and charitable gesture.
- Turmeric Ganesha
Combine turmeric, wheat flour, sugar powder, and milk to create a pliable dough. Then, let your creativity flow as you form both large and small balls from the dough and shape them into a beautiful Ganesha idol.
These Ganesha idols can be crafted with ease and kept for the ten days of Ganesh Utsav before bidding farewell to Ganpati Bappa, promoting an eco-friendly celebration.
