WATCH: Ganesh Idol of 11 Feet Made from Neem Bark in Surat

Surat: As the country celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi with great zeal and fervor, a group in Surat created an 11-foot-tall Ganesh idol from 70 kg of neem bark on Sunday.

The stunning idol was built by 10 artisans over a period of 3 to 4 days. Weighing 600 kg, the idol was made from neem and other natural elements like various types of grass and soil to maintain its stability. No chemicals were used in the process.

Kinjal N. Patel, head of the association that built the idol, explained that approximately 70 to 80 kg of neem bark and natural grass commonly used on farms were employed in its construction. The goal was to ensure the festival did not cause harm to the environment.

Speaking to ANI, Ms. Patel said, "We used approximately 70 to 80 kg of neem and natural grass, along with soil, to build the idol. The primary objective was to protect the environment and prevent any degradation during the festive season."

Another member of the association, Vratik Patel, emphasized that the aim was to raise awareness about the importance of trees and plants.

Similarly, a youth organization in Odisha 's Baripada, known as the Friends Union Organisation, has marked its 18th celebration with a stunning 15-foot-tall Ganesh idol crafted from 25,000 glass bangles. The pandal for the festivities has been constructed using bamboo.

In an interview with ANI, the President of the organization, Saumya Ranjan Mishra, shared, "We are celebrating Ganesh Puja for five days, following the tradition of Maharashtra . The festival lasts for eight days and features traditional tribal songs, dances, a national-level dance competition, and much more. Prasad distribution occurs over the five days. Artists from West Bengal and other states join us. The main attraction of our Ganesh festival is the unique 15-foot Ganesh idol made from 25,000 glass bangles, which draws devotees from different states."

Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations began on September 7th and will continue until the 17th. Devotees across cities, from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, have been seen celebrating with processions, prayers, and festive music.

(Inputs from agencies)