Telugu states embrace eco-friendly Seed Ganesha idols for festival

As the Ganesh Chaturthi festival approaches, artisans and devotees in the Telugu states are navigating a shift toward eco-friendly celebrations. In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, ‘Seed Ganesha’ idols are gaining popularity. These idols are crafted from biodegradable materials like natural clay, organic manure, and coconut fiber, with seeds such as tulsi, neem, or mango embedded inside. Once the ritual immersion is complete, the idol dissolves and the seeds germinate into plants.

In Hyderabad, traditional idol makers in areas like Dhoolpet face economic challenges. While there is a growing movement toward sustainable practices, artisans struggle with competition from cheaper Plaster of Paris (PoP) models and mass-produced idols from neighboring Maharashtra. Despite the rising costs of raw materials and the push for environmental responsibility, local craftsmen continue to produce a wide variety of designs, ranging from traditional avatars to modern trending styles.