Sharing an important message on Twitter the BJP MP from Bengaluru wrote, “I urge all my fellow citizens to adopt “ECO-GANESHA” idol for this Puja”.

He shared an article by an NGO that highlighted how Lord Ganesha is a “God of nature” and represents several “natural elements”, suggesting that using artificial and harmful ingredients actually would not please the Hindu God.

His tweet garnered a positive response and people lauded him for his initiative.

However, this is not the first time a minister has come forward to highlight the benefits of environment-friendly idols. Last year in an address to the nation on Mann Ki Baat Prime Minister Narendra Modi too urged people to use natural clay idols. Over the period of last two years, several leaders, actors and eminent personalities have tried to remind citizens about their responsibilities towards nature while festive fever grips them.

This year Ganesha idols made of cow-dung is also gaining popularity. Nilesh Tupe, an auditor and chow shelter owner, is selling Ganpati idols made from cow-dung, which he sources from gaushalas in Rajasthan. With rising awareness about eco-friendly Ganeshotsav celebrations, this Nerul-resident is offering devotees a way of going green.

While a 30-year-old art director by profession and artist from Lower Parel last year launched an idol that would grow into a plant once the festival is over, another bakery in Ludhiana had made a Ganesha with chocolate. While the Tree Ganesha was an instant hit with creators reeling under pressure to supply, the chocolate Ganesha idol was to be dissolved in milk once the 10-day festival was over and the milkshake was to be distributed as prasad.

Governments had also built small ponds last year to complete the immersion ritual, while several Bollywood celebs shared photos of immersing the idol in a tub at home.