As Ganesh Chaturthi, the beloved festival honouring the elephant-headed deity Lord Ganesha, approaches, the country gears up for yet another year of vibrant celebrations. This year, the festival promises to be particularly special as various communities across the country are infusing fresh creativity and sustainable practices into their traditional rituals. Read on for some positive highlights of the festival from across the country!
Tribal Women Crafting Idols in Surguja, Chhattisgarh
In Surguja, Chhattisgarh, a group of talented tribal women is taking the lead by crafting exquisite Lord Ganesha idols for the upcoming Ganesh Puja. These idols are not just symbols of devotion; they also represent empowerment and economic independence for these women. More than 15,000 women in the city have embraced self-employment, and a remarkable 27 per cent of them now earn an annual income exceeding Rs 1 lakh. This thriving self-help group movement has added a new dimension to the festival's spirit.
Puducherry Students' Eco-Friendly Ganesha
In Puducherry, students embarked on a four-month-long creative journey to sculpt a distinctive 15-foot eco-friendly Ganesha idol. Using 450 kg of paper and 200 kg of glue, these young minds are sending a powerful message about sustainable celebrations. What makes this idol even more special is the inclusion of seeds. After immersion, these idols will nurture new life, symbolising the importance of environmental conservation.
Special Children's Workshop in Navi Mumbai
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In Navi Mumbai, the focus is on spreading eco-friendliness and inclusivity. The Education, Training, and Service Facility Centre (ETC) of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation organized a special workshop for children with disabilities. Not only did these children learn the art of crafting eco-friendly Ganpati idols, but they also planted Tulsi seeds in the soil, emphasising the connection between art and the environment.
Mumbai's Eco-Friendly Giant Ganesha
Meanwhile, Mumbai, where the festival is widely celebrated, is setting an example with its 18-foot-tall eco-friendly paper idol of Lord Ganesha. In an effort to reduce environmental impact, artisans have replaced traditional Plaster of Paris (POP) with eco-friendly paper. These paper idols dissolve in water within four hours, aligning perfectly with eco-conscious practices. The shift towards sustainable celebrations is gaining momentum.
Empowering Women in Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh
In Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh, women from the Maa Chandrahasini Women’s Group are seizing the opportunity to create Ganesh idols. Previously engaged in clay art, they have now diversified their craft and are producing Ganpati idols of various sizes and designs under the Rural Industrial Park Development Authority (RIPA) scheme. This initiative not only provides a sustainable income but also fosters a sense of self-reliance among these women.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2023 is not just about traditional rituals; it's a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and empowerment. These initiatives reflect a broader trend towards mindful and eco-friendly festivities, setting a positive precedent for future celebrations across India. As Lord Ganesha graces homes and pandals, his presence is now intertwined with the spirit of progress and inclusivity.