Anant Kokitkar of Samarth Nagar showcases eco-friendly Ganesha idols crafted from paper, clay and other natural materials
Belagavi : As Ganeshotsav preparations gather momentum, a Belagavi-based sculptor has introduced an innovative initiative that combines festive celebrations with environmental conservation. Anant Kokitkar of Samarth Nagar is crafting lightweight, attractive and fast-dissolving Ganesha idols using paper, clay and other eco-friendly materials. A graduate of Mumbai’s prestigious JJ School of Art, Kokitkar was once involved in making plaster of Paris (POP) Ganesha idols. However, growing awareness about the harmful impact of POP idols on water bodies and the environment prompted him to explore sustainable alternatives. After years of research and experimentation, Kokitkar developed his own unique technique. The process involves soaking white paper in water to create pulp, which is then mixed with soil, clay and other eco-friendly ingredients. The mixture is poured into moulds to shape the idols. Despite being made largely from paper and natural materials, the idols are visually appealing and competitively priced compared to other eco-friendly alternatives. More importantly, they dissolve quickly in water after immersion, helping reduce environmental impact during the festival season.