Ganesha garnished for the river of life

Indian devotees prepare to immerse idols of the Hindu god Ganesha in the sea in Mumbai. Photo / AP

Every year, after months of pouring monsoon rains, millions of devout Hindus across western India celebrate the birthday of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god.

Indians in Mumbai prepare to immerse a statue of Ganesha in the Arabian Sea. Photo / AP

Idols are worshipped in the home and then after a few days they are carried to a large body of water and ceremonially immersed.

Indian devotees prepare to immerse an idol of elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesha in the Arabian Sea. Photo / AP

The ritual, however, leaves rivers, lakes and even the sea polluted with a mix of toxic paints and materials.

Anand Pendharkar demonstrates how he puts fish food in his eco-friendly Ganesha idol at his workshop in Mumbai. Photo / AP

Anand Pendharkar produces Ganesha idols containing fish food made of corn, spinach and flour that can be consumed after the outer shell of clay has dissolved.

Shop owners in Mumbai say the demand for the eco-friendly Ganesha idols has been on the rise this year.