Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Ganesh Chauth, is one of the most joyous festivals in India, honoring Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. This year, the festival will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Along with prayers, sweets, and family gatherings, home decor plays a big role in creating the festive spirit. But in recent years, more families are turning towards sustainable celebrations, ensuring devotion does not come at the cost of the environment.
If you are wondering how to make your decor fresh, meaningful, and eco-friendly this year, here are five budget-friendly DIY ideas you can try at home.
Backdrops with old sarees and dupattas
Instead of buying synthetic decorations that are often thrown away after the festival, reuse what you already have. Old sarees, dupattas, or colorful fabric pieces can be layered to create a vibrant backdrop for your Ganesha idol. Add fairy lights or traditional diyas for an elegant touch. This not only reduces waste but also brings a homely, traditional charm to your décor.
Banana and palm leaves as natural panels
In earlier times, banana and palm leaves were an integral part of festive decorations. Revive this age-old practice by using them as side panels or wall hangings around the mandap. They stay fresh for days, add a soothing green element, and after the festival, they can be composted, leaving behind no waste.
Recycled cardboard cutouts
Instead of thermocol or plastic cutouts, pick up old cardboard boxes lying around at home. With a little creativity, you can paint them into decorative shapes such as floral motifs, temple arches, or traditional designs. This is a great activity to involve children in, making the celebration more participative and fun.
Floral rangolis with organic colors
Rangolis are a festive must-have, but chemical colors often harm the soil and create unnecessary plastic waste. Switch to flower petals, turmeric, rice powder, or natural rangoli colors. Apart from being biodegradable, floral rangolis spread a divine fragrance and create a serene atmosphere around the idol.
Upcycled jars and bottles for lighting
Lighting adds magic to Ganesh Chaturthi nights. Instead of buying plastic lamps, reuse glass jars, bottles, or tin cans. With some paint and creativity, they can be transformed into lanterns or tealight holders. Pair them with eco-friendly candles or oil diyas for a soft, warm glow.
