MUMBAI: Echoing the grand success of its last eight seasons, Big FM is back with the ninth edition of Big Green Ganesha. The initiative aims at creating social consciousness towards making one of India’s largest and most popular festivals, ecologically sound. Following the tremendous support received by dignitaries last year, the campaign this year yet again took shape with an inaugural ceremony at Maharashtra Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis’ guest house – Sahyadri on 2 September 2016.

The launch event also had in attendance prolific dignitaries and celebrities such as Chief Guest Minister of Environment, Ramdas Kadam; State Minister of Environment, Pravin Pote Patil; Additional Chief Secretary, Environment Dept & Chairman, MPCB, Malini Shankar; Member Secretary, MPCB, Dr.P Anbalagan, Tarun Katial, CEO, RBNL; actors Jackie Shroff and Annu Kapoor.

Big FM has always provided an opportunity to the citizens to contribute their bit towards the betterment of society. It began its on-ground newspaper collection drive for the ninth season, whereby they are collecting tons of newspapers which will be shared with some of renowned sculptors who convert them into beautiful and artistic eco-friendly Ganesha idols through techniques of paper mache and clay molding. The drive intends to encourage people to bring home these idols made with eco-friendly materials so that when immersed, the water bodies remain unaffected and unpolluted.

Speaking about the initiative, a spokesperson from Big FM said, “It gives us immense pleasure to announce the ninth edition of Big Green Ganesha. As a constant endeavor to adhere to the sensibilities of devotees, Big FM consistently innovates to make this drive bigger and better every year. Receiving support from the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis for the second consecutive year is a matter of great honour for us. We are proud that this initiative has gained so much popularity over time, and the fact that it is helping us create a green environment for our future generations.”

The campaign will span across 14 major cities this year including Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, Sholapur, Indore, Bhopal, Gwalior, Surat, Baroda, Mysore, Tirupati, Vizag, and Mangalore.

The campaign will witness a 360 degree approach in marketing and digital activities. Amongst the most successful social initiatives of Big FM - Big Green Ganesha has won various accolades for its work over the years including the prestigious India Radio Forum Excellence in Radio Award and Golden Mikes.