NAVI MUMBAI: With just days left for the Ganesh festival, most families are busy with last-minute shopping.
Keeping in mind the state government’s ban on use of thermocol and plastic, citizens have been looking for
makars
and other decorative items made of natural material. Suvam Basu, a resident of Koperkhairane, who has been performing Ganesh puja at their residence for the last 22 years, said she visited local markets to shop for natural articles for the decorations. “Till last year, we made the makar at home from thermocol. But this year, we are planning to make the makar with cardboard, satin flowers and decorative paper.”
Shops too are displaying makars made of natural materials—plywood, stick, bamboo chain decorated with zari and gota, beads, multi-coloured threads and artificial silk.
The prices of these makars are comparatively higher and range between Rs 1,100 to Rs 7,000, depending on the size and material used. Manu bhai from Darshan Enterprise in APMC market says, “This year, we are not selling any items made of thermocol. Instead, we have displayed various natural articles to support the state ban.”
Devotees have also been looking for floral makars that are cheaper than the
wooden
ones. Local florists have been busy making makars with artificial flowers.
These flowers are usually made from textured paper like crepe, satin and
clay
paper and cost between Rs 500 to Rs 2,500, depending on the size. Makars with fresh flowers will flood markets just before
Chaturthi
or are made on orders.
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