Tollywood star Vijay Deverakonda has urged people to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in an eco-friendly manner by choosing clay and seed-based Ganesha idols to prevent pollution in cities and water bodies.
Deverakonda recently received a Vittana Ganapati (Seed Ganesha) idol from the Green India Challenge. In a video released from his residence, he showcased the seed idol placed in a natural pot and encouraged people to opt for Matti Ganapati and Vittana Ganapati idols during the festival.
Explaining the unique feature of the seed idol, Vijay said that after the puja, the idol can be immersed in soil at home. The natural clay dissolves and the seeds embedded in the idol germinate into a plant, which can later be transplanted and nurtured.
He thanked the organisers for the initiative and extended his wishes to everyone ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi on September 14, 2026.
According to the Green India Challenge, the Seed Ganesha idols are made using natural clay, cocopeat and coconut fibre, with seeds of native trees such as neem and tamarind embedded inside. The initiative encourages families to turn the festival into an opportunity to grow and protect greenery.
Launched in 2018 and inspired by Telangana’s Haritha Haram programme, the Green India Challenge promotes the planting of three saplings, nurturing them for three years and encouraging three others to take up the initiative.
The organisation has appealed to households, housing societies, temples and public pandal organisers to choose clay and seed idols instead of Plaster of Paris and chemically painted idols. The move aims to reduce pollution in lakes, rivers and other water bodies while promoting a greener celebration.
