23-Foot Eco-Friendly Ganpati Idol Made from Used Flowers and Tissue Paper Draws Crowd in Mumbai

MUMBAI: As Ganeshotsav celebrations light up Mumbai, a 23-foot-tall eco-friendly idol of Lord Ganesha in Vile Parle has become the talk of the town. Made entirely from used flowers and tissue paper, the idol represents a unique blend of tradition and environmental consciousness, attracting thousands of visitors.
Installed by the Bal Gopal Mitra Mandal, the massive idol is carried by four 'mushaks' (mice) and has been named ‘Mumbaicha Peshwa.’ 
Sunil Mayekar, a committee member of the Mandal, said they have been installing eco-friendly Ganpati idols for the past 17 years.
“It is sad to see the condition of ponds and lakes after idols are immersed,” he said, explaining their decision to use a mixture of used flowers and tissue papers for their idol of the elephant-headed deity this year.
The Mandal, established in 1989, has named its idol ‘Mumbaicha Peshwa’. Four mice carrying the palanquin of the deity makes it more creative, he said.

Focus on Cybercrime Awareness

Mayekar said their Mandal is famous for creating unique idols and sending a social message every year.
“This time, our focus is cybercrime. People are looted and conned online. Uneducated people often fall prey to these online scams. Through our play, we intend to educate and spread the awareness of cybercrime,” he said.
The Mandal has organized a play to educate the public about the dangers of cybercrime and how to avoid becoming victims of online fraud.
Sculpted by Digambar and Rajesh Digambar Mayekar, the idol's unique design and the social message behind it have made it one of the must-visit attractions of this year’s Ganeshotsav.

(With PTI inputs)