Mumbai has achieved a remarkable milestone in its pursuit of sustainable festivities with a 26-foot-high paper Ganesh idol erected at the Boomerang building in Chandivali. The idol, known as “Boomerang Ka Raja,” has been certified by the International Book of Records as the world’s tallest eco-friendly Ganesh idol. This unique creation is a testament to the city’s growing commitment to eco-friendly celebrations during Ganeshotsav.
The Namo Namo Sangathan Trust, responsible for this innovative display, highlights the idol’s unique composition—crafted entirely from recyclable materials. Constructed from 3.5 lakh sheets of tissue paper, 22 kilograms of glue, and 45 kilograms of metal, the idol is designed around a metal framework, ensuring that every element can be recycled. Unlike traditional idols, which are transported for immersion, this paper idol will undergo a unique immersion process on Visarjan day, where a tall shower will dissolve the paper within 30 minutes. This method eliminates the need for a processional journey on the roads, significantly reducing vehicular pollution, crowd management challenges, and environmental impact.
“This approach means there will be no pollution from vehicles, no crowd control issues, and it will be truly environmentally friendly,” an official from Namo Namo Sangathan explained. The organisation is dedicated to promoting welfare schemes endorsed by the Prime Minister, aligning its environmental initiatives with broader national goals. The eco-conscious design, spearheaded by artist Rajesh Digambar Mayekar, represents a departure from the traditional plaster-of-Paris idols. Mayekar, who has been crafting eco-friendly Ganesh idols since 2007, used non-toxic poster colours for painting the idol, further reducing its environmental footprint compared to conventional paints.
The tradition of celebrating Ganeshotsav at the Boomerang building began a decade ago, initially featuring idols made from “shaadu maati” (natural clay). However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers shifted to paper idols to promote safer and more sustainable practices. “It’s not just about creating the largest idol but also about inspiring a movement for a greener future,” said one of the organisers. The grand inauguration of the idol was conducted by Ayodhya’s Rasik Peethadhishwar Mahant Janmejay Sharan, adding a spiritual dimension to the celebration.
As Mumbai continues to evolve its approach to festivities, the “Boomerang Ka Raja” serves as a powerful symbol of environmental stewardship, encouraging other communities to adopt greener practices in their cultural and religious events. With growing awareness about the need for sustainable practices, the installation of this 26-foot paper Ganesh idol in Mumbai could set a precedent for future celebrations, combining tradition with environmental consciousness. As more organisations and communities consider eco-friendly alternatives, this initiative stands out as a beacon for a more sustainable future.
