Diwali 2022: What to do with idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesh after Diwali?

Diwali, the festival of light is celebrated across India in various ways. While people in north India worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesh, many in east India worship Goddess Kali. Irrespective of the gods worshipped, the enthusiasm remains the same across the country. But the major concern rises when it comes to the immersion of idols.

Previously, the idols used to be made of mud and painted with organic colours. But in the recent time, more of Plaster of Paris (PoP) or plastic is used with harmful paints that contain metals like manganese, lead, and chromium to curate the idols. The concern arises as these may severely harm the environment. Moreover, things get even worsened when people end up buying idols available at cheaper prices made of mostly non-biodegradable items, as idols with all biodegradable items are mostly expensive.

Here are some of the ways to ensure that idols don’t contribute to further environmental degradation:

1. Restore the idol:

Arup Mazumder, 54, a resident of Kolkata manufactured an idol of Goddess Kali for the tribals. “Often the tribal community fails to participate in the Puja. Keeping them in mind, I have made this idol in that theme by using thermocol, clay and colours. This idol has been used for the puja organized for the tribal community,” said Mazumdar. He also suggested that the idol has been prepared in a way so that it can be restored after the Puja as well.  

2. Use idols made of bio-degradable items:

Often it is a challenge to immerse the idols as they are made up of non-biodegradable items. It is always advisable to buy idols that are made purely of clay and straws.  

3. Re-use the same:

Even though it is made of clay, it is better not to immerse the idol and use the components for other purposes. For example, small idols made of clay can be melted using water and the mud produced can be used for gardening.  

4. Keep at a place of worship at home:

In some households, people use silver coins or small silver idols with images of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesh for worship. They then keep these silver coins or the small silver idols secured in the locker or cupboard at home, believing it would keep wealth secured and facilitate the inflow of prosperity.