Viral Desai’s “Tree Ganesha” Campaign Gets Asia Record

Environmentalist Viral Desai, fondly called the Green Man of Surat, has made history with his “Tree Ganesha” campaign being officially recognized in the Asia Book of Records. The initiative, the world’s only religious-cultural celebration centered entirely on environmental conservation, has mobilized lakhs of youngsters to become "environment warriors."

But behind this grand movement lies a deeply human story that shaped Desaïs vision. Years ago, at a medical camp in the tribal-dominated Dang district, Desai noticed something extra-ordinary not a single woman tested positive for breast cancer. Doctors attributed this to their close bond with nature, traditional lifestyle and healthy environment.

"That moment changed me." Desai recalled. "If living in harmony with nature can protect people from such deadly diseases, imagine the benefits if our cities embraced greenery. That is when I decided to adopt tree plantation as my lifelong mission."

Since then, Desai has set himself a colossal target planting more than one crore trees. Yet, he admits even that won't be enough to counter the damage caused by deforestation and climate change.

"One crore trees is only a beginning. To truly heal our planet, every citizen must con-tribute. If we don’t act today, future generations will pay the price." he warned.

For the last eight years, Tree Ganesha has blended devotion with ecology, where instead of traditional idols, saplings are planted as an offering to Lord Ganesha. The campaign runs under Desaïs larger movement, Satyagraha Against Pollution and Climate Change and has prepared over one lakh students as active green warriors.

The initiative has found strong institutional backing. The Surat Police, Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) and the Forest Department have all extended support, allowing the movement to scale up.

Acknowledging the global recognition, Desai said, "Tree Ganesha is not just a festival but a revolution. The Asia Book of Records honor is proof that our collective effort is making a difference. But recognition is only a milestone, the real goal is to secure the future of our planet."

Tree Ganesha has also expanded into study tours and workshops on biodiversity, ecosystem restoration and urban forests, giving young people practical exposure to environmental challenges. The campaign's international recognition has placed Surat on the global map of innovative environmental movements.

Even as his movement grows, Desai stresses the urgency of the climate crisis.

"We must move beyond symbolism. Planting trees, conserving biodiversity, reducing pollution are not optional choices any more. They are survival strategies." he said.

With a personal mission to plant over one crore trees, Desai continues to inspire communities across Gujarat and India. For him, every sap-ling planted is not just a tree, but a step towards healthier lives, cleaner air and a sustainable future.