Vashi: An eco-friendly 14-foot Ganesh idol at Sector 8, Vashi, is drawing devotees with a unique theme centred on the 12 Jyotirlingas of India. Created by Yuva Ganesh Mitra Mandal, the idol is made using soil from the Ganga basin as part of the mandal’s 44-year tradition of promoting social messages during Ganeshotsav.

The main attraction is a replica of Kedarnath Dham, built with eco-friendly materials, with the idol placed against the backdrop. A replica of the Bhimshila, the massive boulder associated with the 2013 Kedarnath floods, has also been installed behind the idol.

The mandal has used the Bhimshila to convey a message of faith, devotion and divine protection. “The ultimate message is that when there is faith and devotion in the Almighty, nothing can destroy what is protected by that faith,” the organisers said.

Informative posters explaining all 12 Jyotirlingas have been displayed at the venue, allowing visitors to learn about their religious significance.

The idol has been crafted by Bengal artisans using traditional techniques and natural materials, including bamboo, hay, husk and Ganga-basin soil. Designed in the style of Lord Shiva, it features a Rudraksha mukut and garland.

The mandal will hold a health check-up and blood donation camp on September 20. It has also planted 45 trees as part of its environmental initiative.

Committee member Jayesh Patil said, “The mandal has used eco-friendly idols since 2010. Today, the concept of eco-friendly idols has been adopted and promoted by civic authorities as part of efforts to protect the environment,” he said.

The festivities will include Satyanarayan Mahapuja, fancy dress, Garba, housie, drawing competitions, sports, musical chairs and dance performances. Mass aarti is held daily at 9 am and 8 pm.

 Eco-Friendly Ganpati at Vashi

• Location: Sector 8, Vashi
• Mandal: Yuva Ganesh Mitra Mandal
• Idol: 14-foot eco-friendly Ganpati
• Theme: 12 Jyotirlingas of India
• Special Attraction: Kedarnath Dham & Bhimshila replicas
• Materials: Ganga-basin soil, bamboo, hay, and husk
• Green Initiative: 45 trees planted
• Social Camps: Health check-up & blood donation on September 20
• Daily Aarti: 9 am and 8 pm