Mumbai: Following court orders, the BMC has banned Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols to promote an eco-friendly Ganeshotsav this year. However, the Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti (BSGSS) fears that a complete ban on POP could hinder the making of large idols and dampen the festive spirit. They have urged the state government and BMC to explore safe, eco-friendly alternatives to POP that preserve cultural traditions.
The BMC is offering free Shadu clay to idol makers and allocating designated spaces for idol installation on a “first come, first served” basis. However, many major Ganeshotsav mandals install large idols—often around 18 feet tall—which are difficult to craft using Shadu clay alone.
Clarifying the committee’s position, BSGSS president Adv. Naresh Dahibhavkar said "We respect the court's directive banning POP idols and support eco-friendly celebrations. But a blanket ban on PoP may make it impossible to create tall idols, risking the erosion of cultural traditions."
He further added that, "The PoP ban is not limited to Ganeshotsav alone — it will also affect upcoming festivals like Sharadotsav in Ashwin month and Maghi Ganeshotsav."
Dahibavkar urged the BMC, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, idol makers associations, and festival mandals to come together and find a comprehensive solution at the earliest. Meanwhile, the BMC will be providing training sessions for its staff and officials to effectively distinguish between idols made from PoP and those made from clay.
On January 30, the Bombay High Court issued a stringent directive banning the manufacture, sale, and immersion of idols made from PoP. This ruling was made to ensure compliance with the environmental guidelines set forth by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The BMC has sent a letter to the Konkan Divisional Commissioners, urging them to encourage idol makers in the Konkan districts to create eco-friendly idols using clay (shadu) instead of the traditionally used PoP.
