As the much-awaited Ganesh festival approaches, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken a strong stand to promote eco-friendly celebrations and protect the environment. The civic body has issued strict directives to craftsmen, artisans, and manufacturers, urging them to use organic and biodegradable materials for making Ganpati idols. The use of harmful substances such as Plaster of Paris (PoP) and chemicals that cause damage to the ecosystem is strictly prohibited.
PMC Additional Commissioner Kunal Khemnar has emphasized the importance of adopting an eco-friendly approach to idol-making in order to save the environment from the adverse effects of toxic materials. He urges citizens to support the initiative by purchasing idols from craftsmen and artists who adhere to pollution guidelines and use eco-friendly materials.
To create awareness and foster understanding about the environmental impact, sculptors and idol makers have organized workshops on making Ganesh idols using natural clay or mud (shadu). These workshops aim to encourage people to switch to eco-friendly options and empower them to create their own idols at home.
Abhijit Dhondphale, a sculptor with a family legacy of crafting eco-friendly Ganesh idols, emphasizes the need for a collective shift towards sustainable practices. He believes that by reducing the demand for PoP idols and promoting eco-friendly alternatives, significant progress can be made in preserving the environment.
While the prices of eco-friendly idols may be higher due to the use of natural and biodegradable materials, it is crucial to prioritize environmental concerns. Nitin Satav, a clay sculptor, highlights the need for strict enforcement of rules by civic authorities. He shares his experience of financial losses due to a lack of awareness and demand for eco-friendly idols. Satav emphasizes that manufacturers will stop producing PoP idols if people actively discourage their use.
The PMC has provided clear guidelines to ensure eco-friendly celebrations. Idols should be made from raw materials like mud or natural clay, and harmful materials like PoP, plastic, and thermocol should be avoided. Ornaments should be made from dried flower materials or straw, and natural product resins can be used for shine. Chemical dyes, oil paints, and synthetic dye-based paints should be avoided for painting idols, while natural colors and mineral pigments are recommended. Decorative clothes should be made of natural materials and colors, and they should be removable and washable.
By following these guidelines and embracing eco-friendly practices, citizens can contribute to the preservation of the environment and ensure a sustainable Ganpati festival. Let us come together to celebrate while demonstrating our love for Mother Earth and committing to a greener future.
