India Today ·
21,000 living plants shape Ganesh idol with a green message in Andhra Pradesh
A Ganesh idol made with 21,000 living plants has become the focus of celebrations at a temple in Anakapalli district. The organisers say the display ties devotion to environmental responsibility by promoting greenery over waste.
A Ganesh idol made using 21,000 living plants and saplings has become the centre of attraction at the Sri Chintamani Ganapathi Datta Kshethram in Sirasapalli village of Parawada mandal in Andhra Pradesh's Anakapalli district.
Named ‘Sasya Ganapathi’, the unique creation uses live greenery to form the deity, giving the idol a distinctly natural appearance. Unlike conventional Ganesh idols made from clay and other materials, the initiative seeks to combine religious devotion with a message of environmental conservation.
The green Ganesha has emerged as the major attraction of this year's celebrations, drawing devotees and visitors to the temple.
Odisha Governor Dr Kambhampati Hari Babu visited the temple and offered prayers to the deity. He also participated in special rituals and prayed for peace, prosperity and the well-being of people.
Anakapalli MLA Konathala Ramakrishna, along with temple trustees, local representatives and devotees from neighbouring villages, also participated in the celebrations.
According to the organisers, the 21,000-plant Ganapathi is not merely an attempt to create an unusual festival attraction. The initiative is intended to encourage people to view environmental protection as part of their religious and social responsibility.
By using thousands of living plants instead of a conventional festival backdrop, the organisers hope the celebration conveys a simple message: celebrate Ganesha while creating and preserving more greenery rather than generating more waste.