Bombay High Court's New Rule for Ganesh Chaturthi: Idols up to 6 Feet Must Be Immersed in Artificial Water Bodies

The Bombay High Court has ruled that idols up to six feet in height must be immersed in artificial water bodies during the upcoming Ganesh festival. This directive applies to idols made of plaster of Paris and those less than six feet tall. The order also includes Durga idols set to be immersed in early October. The move aims to minimize the environmental impact of idol immersion, with smaller idols being required to be immersed in artificial ponds. The Maharashtra government has stated that domestic Ganesh idols up to five feet will also be immersed in artificial ponds, while larger idols from public Ganeshotsav Mandals will continue to be immersed in the sea.

The court's decision comes as a response to concerns over the environmental impact of idol immersion, particularly the use of Plaster of Paris (POP). The state government argued that banning POP could harm the livelihoods of sculptors and impact the traditional industry. However, the High Court emphasized the need to reduce the environmental impact and mandated the immersion of idols up to six feet in artificial tanks or ponds. Ganesh Chaturthi, a significant festival in Maharashtra, will begin on August 27 this year and continue for 10 days until Anantha Chaturdashi.

According to the source: Mint.