Ganesh Visarjan 2024: How to perform an eco-friendly immersion at home

Mumbai: As the grand festival of Ganesh Chaturthi culminates, devotees prepare for the sacred ritual of Ganesh Visarjan on Anant Chaturdashi. This significant day marks the end of the 10-day festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, revered as the remover of obstacles and the first deity to be worshipped in Hinduism. Alongside the immersion of Lord Ganesha’s idol, Lord Vishnu is also honoured on this auspicious day.

Traditionally, Ganesh Visarjan involves submerging the idol in rivers, lakes, or the sea. However, due to growing environmental concerns and limited access to natural water bodies in some areas, many households now choose to conduct the immersion at home, ensuring their practice aligns with eco-friendly principles.

How to Perform Ganesh Visarjan at Home?

While the tenth day of Ganesh Chaturthi, known as Anant Chaturdashi, is widely observed for Visarjan, the third, fifth, and seventh days are also considered auspicious for the ritual. Performing the immersion at home is simple, yet requires thoughtful preparation to ensure both the spiritual and environmental aspects are respected.

Step-by-Step Process for Eco-Friendly Ganesh Visarjan

Opt for a clay idol instead of one made from Plaster of Paris (POP), which is harmful to water bodies. Eco-friendly Ganesh idols help reduce pollution, in keeping with sustainable practices.

Select a bucket or tub large enough to accommodate the idol. Fill it with clean water, ensuring there’s enough to submerge the idol completely. You can add ammonium carbonate to accelerate the dissolution process.

Gently lower the idol into the water while chanting mantras for Lord Ganesha. Stir the water lightly, and soon, the clay idol will dissolve, leaving behind a residue of white foam. Dispose of this foam responsibly, either in an open field or a designated compost area, ensuring no harm to the environment.

Immersing Fitkari (Alum) Idols

For those who have chosen an idol made from fitkari (alum), the immersion is even simpler. After completing the worship rituals, immerse the fitkari idol in a tub of water. The idol will dissolve naturally within hours, leaving no residue behind, making it a perfect eco-friendly option.

Important Reminders for Ganesh Visarjan

Always perform the final aarti (worship) of Lord Ganesha before the immersion, offering His favourite items like modak and flowers.
Select an auspicious time (muhurat) for immersion to maximise blessings.
Handle the idol with care during the immersion, lowering it gently into the water as a sign of respect and devotion.
For those performing Visarjan in public water bodies, such as ponds or lakes, ensure that the water is clean and not connected to drainage systems or other polluted sources.

Spiritual Significance of Ganesh Visarjan

As we bid farewell to Lord Ganesha, the ritual of Visarjan reminds us of the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution, symbolising new beginnings and spiritual renewal. With each immersion, devotees reflect on the lessons of Lord Ganesha and seek His blessings for the year ahead.

 As Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 draws to a close, learn how to perform an eco-friendly Ganesh Visarjan at home, honouring Lord Ganesha and protecting the environment with simple, meaningful rituals.  Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips