Mandya Sets an Inspiring Example for Environmentally Conscious Celebrations
Mandya, Karnataka: In a remarkable effort to promote eco-consciousness during Ganesh Chaturthi, the residents of Mandya have unveiled a unique and eco-friendly way of celebrating the festival. Instead of traditional clay idols, they have turned to jaggery to craft stunning Lord Ganesh idols that not only symbolize devotion but also environmental sustainability.
This innovative initiative is a collaborative endeavor between the Vikasana Institute For Rural And Urban Development Mandya and Tammayya, a resident of Haluvadi village in Mandya. Tammayya’s meticulous craftsmanship ensures that these jaggery idols are not only beautiful but also free from harmful chemicals.
These eco-conscious Ganesh idols come in various sizes, including 2-foot-tall Ganesha idols and half-foot-tall Gouri idols, making them accessible to devotees of all kinds. What’s even more impressive is their affordability, allowing more people to bring Lord Ganesh into their homes for worship and the customary Visarjan.
The demand for these unique idols has surged, with people from various districts across the state expressing keen interest in acquiring them. One of the main reasons behind this enthusiasm is the water-soluble nature of jaggery. When these idols are immersed in water, the jaggery dissolves naturally, leaving no harmful residue behind. Some individuals are taking it a step further by choosing to immerse these idols in milk, further contributing to the eco-conscious spirit of the celebration. It’s a heartening way to bid farewell to the detrimental impact of chemicals on the environment.
Notably, this isn’t the first time Mandya has embraced the idea of worshipping jaggery-made idols for Ganesh Chaturthi. Last year, the Assistant Commissioner of Mandya, H.L. Nagaraj, inaugurated an initiative featuring Gowri-Ganesha idols made from jaggery. The warm reception of this innovative approach underscores the town’s commitment to celebrating an eco-friendly Ganesh Chaturthi while setting an inspiring example for others to follow.
As we celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi today, Mandya’s eco-friendly approach serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the importance of preserving our environment even during cherished traditions.
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