Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday said devotion and environmental preservation take precedence over the size of idols, and celebrating festivals responsibly is a duty shared by every citizen.

Eco focus

Speaking at the ‘Eco-Friendly Maha Ganesha Idol Workshop 2026’ at the CIDCO Exhibition and Convention Centre in Vashi, Fadnavis said protecting natural elements is essential for human survival. Lord Ganesha represents wisdom, he said, urging citizens to avoid Plaster of Paris and chemical dyes to prevent water pollution. “Divine blessings depend on selfless service to nature rather than the physical scale of an idol,” Fadnavis said.