Tree Ganesha
"Tree Ganesha" is an innovative environmental initiative led by Viral Desai. During the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, participants create eco-friendly Ganesha idols made from clay and seeds instead of traditional idols. After the festivities, these idols are planted, transforming them into living trees. This initiative promotes environmental awareness and sustainable practices while fostering a deeper connection with nature.
This unique celebration, exclusively observed in Surat under Viral Desai's leadership, sees active participation from millions of devotees. Desai has pioneered a new trend in celebrating Ganesh Utsav by blending tradition with ecological responsibility.
Tree Ganesh: Asia Book of Record
Surat, famously known as the diamond capital of the world, has gained international recognition for Tree Ganesha. The initiative was awarded a spot in the Asia Book of Records as the world’s only religious–cultural festival devoted entirely to the environment.
A Vision Rooted in Responsibility
Over the past eight years, Tree Ganesha has not only been a celebration but a movement in line with the philosophy of “Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change.” Viral Desai has groomed over one lakh students as environment warriors, blending culture with conservation.
