LIFE CHANGING INCIDENT.....
In the year 2010, I had got a Ganpati Made Of POP and celebrated the festival with great joy and big enthusiasm.He is the God of wisdom and prosperity so people in Hindu religion worship him to get the same. When the time of immersion was nearing I was saddened to let him go and with full pomp n show we left home for visarjan.After reaching there the excitement and the energy defies how crowded the beach actually is. It feels as though the Ganesh idols, resplendent with their charming demeanour, are showering a bountiful of blessings on the devotees.
All my excitement turned into dissapointment and guilt when I saw the beach flooded with pieces of Ganesha's body parts,coconuts,flowers,thermocol,plastic bags everywhere.I was flabbergasted and dumb struk. .A huge amount of Coconut Trees are chopped off and the palm leaves are used to decorate trucks used to carry the Idol during immersion.Banana Leaves are also used to decorate the trucks. Apart from the roads that are filled with trash the next day, beaches, rivers and lakes are most affected. After seeing the terrible scenes while immersions at Chowpatty Beach, I pledged not to get an idol made of POP again and do immersion.I felt if he is the God of wisdom how come people are not getting wiser by seeing and understanding that repeatedly year by year we are polluting the water bodies.
I"AM MORE SHOCKED AT THE FACT THAT ALL POLITICAL LEADERS,EMMINENT PERSONALITIES AND MANY OTHERS IN POSITION WHO CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE ARE SILENT.
The Mumbai police has banned the publication of damaged idols, these pictures have been taken from Juhu Beach the Day after Ganesh Chaturthi. I guess the police does not want people to be made aware and woken up to the harsh realities of the destruction of mother nature in the name of God.
Why Green Bappa?
We all love our favorite elephant God- Ganesha, fondly referred to as ½Ganapati Bappaï ½ in Maharashtra. We bring him in our houses with lot of fanfare, beautifully decorate his throne, keep him well fed with ladoos and modaks, entertain him with bhajans and artis, but when the time comes for him to depart we are careless and unimaginative.
How?
- Plaster of Paris or PoP idols which are commonly used, contain chemicals like gympsum, sulphur, magnesium, phosphorous. These when immersed in water, take a long time to dissolve in the water, release chemicals and harm the eco system in water.
- The chemicals used in the paints to color the idols contain trace elements like arsenic, mercury, silicon, lead, magnesium which are poisonous and not only kill aquatic life but also may enter our food cycle leading to long term health consequences.
- Idols that are improperly immersed restrict the flow of water and cause water stagnation increasing chance of mosquito infestation and diseases.
- The thermocol makhars or decorations used during the festival are dumped along the garbage, increasing landfill and which takes thousands of years to disintegrate.
- The garlands and other flower waste thrown in plastic bags into lakes, rivers and the seas, lead to water pollution.
There is no denying the faith and the love we all feel about Ganesha but we must equally be concerned about the impact of our actions on the environment. We feel strongly feel about the unnecessary harm done to our environment while celebrating this joyful festival. So have creating a platform to spread awareness about the issue and providing solutions for celebrating Ganesh utsav in an eco friendly manner.
Ganesh Chaturthiï Eco friendly Origins
Unlike the kind of celebrations we today associate with Ganesh Chaturthi- loud, ostentatious, environmentally degrading; the original Ganesh Chaturthi was quite opposite. According to some, it was the ancient agricultural communities in India that began this custom. In order to offer their thanks to earth since they depended on it, they collected some soil from the bank from the river and took it home to worship. After the ritual was over, they would take back the soil and immerse it in the river.
Over a period, the custom evolved and the mound of soil became Ganesha. They first started making Ganesh idols from the soil they brought home then the local craftsmen made them. Slowly it was clay and then Plaster of Paris that was now used to make the idols. Then came artificial colours and then elaborate decorations. Today, more grand the decoration, bigger the idol, more expensive the budget- the better.. Thus from a small, simple, symbolic gesture of gratitude, Ganesh chaturthi became a festival of grandiose, losing some of its soul in the process.
9 Tips to make your Ganesha Green
Want to celebrate Ganeshotsav but don't want to harm the environment? Here are tips for you!
- Green Idol: Do not buy Ganesh idols made from PoP (Plaster of Paris) instead look for idols made from paper Mache, clay or install a metal idol.
- Green paint: While choosing a clay model, make sure that the colors used on it are eco friendly and do not contain metallic compounds which can be poisonous for the aquatic life.
- Smaller Size: Reduce the size of the ganesh idol you bring home, this will reduce the harm caused by its immersion.
- Green Decorations: Instead of going for decoration made from thermocol, use innovative ideas for decorations like colorful flowers, lights, cloth drapes.
- Simple Celebrations: Go for a simple celebration which keeps the essence of the festival alive along with the traditional and religious aspects of it.
- Green Immersions: On the day of immersion, immerse your idols at artificial ponds in your area do not immerse them in rivers, lakes or sea.
- Disposing Waste: Do not throw the flowers, garlands in the water while immersion, dispose them in a paper bag in the nirmalya or waste bins installed by the municipality.
- No nuisance, please: Also while you take your idol for immersion, avoid using bands or huge speakers which causes nuisance to young and old alike.
- Common Celebration: Talk to your family and friends and help reduce the number of idols immersed by having a common Ganesh idol. This will not only reduce the strain on environment but also increase the joy of the festival.
Want to celebrate Ganeshotsav but don't want to harm the environment? Here are tips for you!
- Green Idol: Do not buy Ganesh idols made from PoP (Plaster of Paris) instead look for idols made from paper Mache, clay or install a metal idol.
- Green paint: While choosing a clay model, make sure that the colors used on it are eco friendly and do not contain metallic compounds which can be poisonous for the aquatic life.
- Smaller Size: Reduce the size of the ganesh idol you bring home, this will reduce the harm caused by its immersion.
- Green Decorations: Instead of going for decoration made from thermocol, use innovative ideas for decorations like colorful flowers, lights, cloth drapes.
- Simple Celebrations: Go for a simple celebration which keeps the essence of the festival alive along with the traditional and religious aspects of it.
- Green Immersions: On the day of immersion, immerse your idols at artificial ponds in your area do not immerse them in rivers, lakes or sea.
- Disposing Waste: Do not throw the flowers, garlands in the water while immersion, dispose them in a paper bag in the nirmalya or waste bins installed by the municipality.
- No nuisance, please: Also while you take your idol for immersion, avoid using bands or huge speakers which causes nuisance to young and old alike.
- Common Celebration: Talk to your family and friends and help reduce the number of idols immersed by having a common Ganesh idol. This will not only reduce the strain on environment but also increase the joy of the festival.
GREEN IMMERSION
Artificial Immersion
The cacophony of the chants, bhajans, lezim and the rising fervor during Ganesh Visarjan gives an electrifying atmosphere. But what many people forget it that along with our immersion of dear Bappa, we also leave many harmful chemical paints, and Plaster of Paris which is insoluble in water, into the creeks, sea and lakes.
We don�t realize that our actions disturb marine ecology and many organisms simply die after the festival. In the face of unrestrained immersion of idols, a number of lakes like the 35 lakes in Thane are in the danger of being extinct. In a 2009 year, 1.91 lakh of idols were immersed (according to envis). Tons and tons of POP are left into the water bodies, where fishes and other aquatic organisms thrive putting their lives in danger.
There is one solution to burgeoning problem: Artificial Immersions.
What is Artificial immersion?
Artificial immersion is immersion of Ganesh idols within our homes or in an artificial pond constructed by the local municipal corporation. A pit is dug out, large enough to contain a large number of idols of that area. It is then covered with Tarpaulin sheets so to as ensure that no water or idols seeps into the ground. Then the pond is filled by water, embankments are made and the pond is ready.
This way the harmful chemicals used in making the idols do not reach natural water bodies. After Ganpati immersions are over, the pit is again filled with soil after the idols are removed.
What happens to the idols later?
The idols then accumulate at the base of the artificial pond. The POP disintegrates and settles down. It is all taken out and can be recycled into a host of articles like POP bricks, containers etc. Through this activity, natural water bodies are not only protected from these materials, but something useful is also made. Some citizens groups like Pestom Sagar Citizens Association, Chembur, engage in this kind of activity.
The cacophony of the chants, bhajans, lezim and the rising fervor during Ganesh Visarjan gives an electrifying atmosphere. But what many people forget it that along with our immersion of dear Bappa, we also leave many harmful chemical paints, and Plaster of Paris which is insoluble in water, into the creeks, sea and lakes.
|
We don�t realize that our actions disturb marine ecology and many organisms simply die after the festival. In the face of unrestrained immersion of idols, a number of lakes like the 35 lakes in Thane are in the danger of being extinct. In a 2009 year, 1.91 lakh of idols were immersed (according to envis). Tons and tons of POP are left into the water bodies, where fishes and other aquatic organisms thrive putting their lives in danger.
There is one solution to burgeoning problem: Artificial Immersions.
|
What is Artificial immersion?
Artificial immersion is immersion of Ganesh idols within our homes or in an artificial pond constructed by the local municipal corporation. A pit is dug out, large enough to contain a large number of idols of that area. It is then covered with Tarpaulin sheets so to as ensure that no water or idols seeps into the ground. Then the pond is filled by water, embankments are made and the pond is ready.
This way the harmful chemicals used in making the idols do not reach natural water bodies. After Ganpati immersions are over, the pit is again filled with soil after the idols are removed.
|
|
What happens to the idols later?
The idols then accumulate at the base of the artificial pond. The POP disintegrates and settles down. It is all taken out and can be recycled into a host of articles like POP bricks, containers etc. Through this activity, natural water bodies are not only protected from these materials, but something useful is also made. Some citizens groups like Pestom Sagar Citizens Association, Chembur, engage in this kind of activity.
The idols then accumulate at the base of the artificial pond. The POP disintegrates and settles down. It is all taken out and can be recycled into a host of articles like POP bricks, containers etc. Through this activity, natural water bodies are not only protected from these materials, but something useful is also made. Some citizens groups like Pestom Sagar Citizens Association, Chembur, engage in this kind of activity.
Symbolic Immersion
The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi started with the agrarian community bringing home a mould of soil from the river bank, worshipping it and then immersing it back to the river after the ritual. This ritual was to pay respect to earth and also to signify the cycle of creation and dissolution, acknowledging the fact that all things come from nature and go seamlessly back to it.
However as years passed, the mould of soil became the idol of Ganesha; the ritual remained but the message behind it was lost.
Instead of looking at immersion from a ritualistic point of view, we need to understand the thought behind it. Today knowing the harmful chemicals in the idols as well as colors, we need to make practical adjustments in the immersion practices.
We must opt for symbolic immersion,
- Instead of the actual Ganesh idol we could immerse a betel nut and pack away the idol for use the next year.
- Another way of immersion could be sprinkling a few drops of water on the idol and then wiping it off and keeping the idol for another year�s use.
- In case of metal idols we can immerse the idol in a tub or a bucket at home.
This way we do not lose touch with our culture and tradition but also preserve the environment.
|
The origins of Ganesh Chaturthi started with the agrarian community bringing home a mould of soil from the river bank, worshipping it and then immersing it back to the river after the ritual. This ritual was to pay respect to earth and also to signify the cycle of creation and dissolution, acknowledging the fact that all things come from nature and go seamlessly back to it.
However as years passed, the mould of soil became the idol of Ganesha; the ritual remained but the message behind it was lost.
Instead of looking at immersion from a ritualistic point of view, we need to understand the thought behind it. Today knowing the harmful chemicals in the idols as well as colors, we need to make practical adjustments in the immersion practices.
We must opt for symbolic immersion,
- Instead of the actual Ganesh idol we could immerse a betel nut and pack away the idol for use the next year.
- Another way of immersion could be sprinkling a few drops of water on the idol and then wiping it off and keeping the idol for another year�s use.
- In case of metal idols we can immerse the idol in a tub or a bucket at home.
This way we do not lose touch with our culture and tradition but also preserve the environment.
|
Green Team
Evergreen Recyclekaro (INDIA) Pvt Ltd.
- Recyclekaro, is a social enterprise which works on recycling and works majorly for recycling of paper, Nirmalya and e-waste. Recyclekaro has outlets in Airoli, Mulund and have outlets in other cities in India. To know more, visit the site www.recyclekaro.com
In 2011, TWIGG decided to reach a wider base of people by spreading awareness about celebrating eco- friendly Ganesh chaturthi through a website. They have tried to compile information about different kinds of idols available, their advantages, eco friendly decoration, how to make them and the best ways of immersion. We hope those you who go through the website will find all they wanted to know about eco friendly celebration of Ganesh utsav.
- Recyclekaro, is a social enterprise which works on recycling and works majorly for recycling of paper, Nirmalya and e-waste. Recyclekaro has outlets in Airoli, Mulund and have outlets in other cities in India. To know more, visit the site www.recyclekaro.com
In 2011, TWIGG decided to reach a wider base of people by spreading awareness about celebrating eco- friendly Ganesh chaturthi through a website. They have tried to compile information about different kinds of idols available, their advantages, eco friendly decoration, how to make them and the best ways of immersion. We hope those you who go through the website will find all they wanted to know about eco friendly celebration of Ganesh utsav.
TWIGG
- Green Bappa is an initiative undertaken by two groups- TWIGG and Recyclekaro
TWIGG is a voluntary group of five college friends from Navi Mumbai and Mumbai, to spread awareness about ecological issues and foster community involvement to conserve environment through various activities.
The members include Ruta Satam, Chaitra Yadavar, Ashwini Bhawar, Snehal Kulkarni, Snehal Malwad and Swagata Yadavar. They have previously organized ‘Eco-friendly Ganeshotsav’ in August 2009 consisting of three days of activities and events like competitions for school children, rallies and exhibitions in Airoli and Vashi.
In 2010, built a campaign around the same lines titled ‘Ganesha says Go Green’ in collaboration with Recyclekaro.They conducted awareness drives, exhibitions, workshops in Mulund, Vashi and Airoli.
- Green Bappa is an initiative undertaken by two groups- TWIGG and Recyclekaro
TWIGG is a voluntary group of five college friends from Navi Mumbai and Mumbai, to spread awareness about ecological issues and foster community involvement to conserve environment through various activities.
The members include Ruta Satam, Chaitra Yadavar, Ashwini Bhawar, Snehal Kulkarni, Snehal Malwad and Swagata Yadavar. They have previously organized ‘Eco-friendly Ganeshotsav’ in August 2009 consisting of three days of activities and events like competitions for school children, rallies and exhibitions in Airoli and Vashi.
In 2010, built a campaign around the same lines titled ‘Ganesha says Go Green’ in collaboration with Recyclekaro.They conducted awareness drives, exhibitions, workshops in Mulund, Vashi and Airoli.
The Final Solution
Here is what we found out after our research on the environmental impact of celebrating Ganesh chaturthi or Ganesh utsav
- Ganesha idols made from PoP or Plaster of Paris contain gypsum which add to the toxicity of water and harm marine life
- Ganesh idols are generally painted by colours that contain trace metals like mercury and cadmium which can be fatal for humans and other life forms once it enters food cycle
- Large size of Ganesh idols contain large amounts of PoP, large amount of paint, need more time to dissolve thus causing more harm to the environment
- Ganesh idols made from shaadu clay or clay from the river bed dissolved easily in water however it was still not a part of the ecosystem and deposits in the bed
- Ganesh idols made from paper mache also dissolved easily and are broken down by micro organisms in the water however they can create anerobic environment depleting oxygen levels in the water killing fish
- Eco friendly colours sold by paint companies and home-made colours like sendur, gulal, kum kum, turmeric, geru are much gentler on the environment but can still harm the marine life since they are also foreign to the eco system and their presence in large quantities
So what could be the solution to the problem?
The only way we can reduce the impact of this festival is through community efforts. One of the reasons why Ganesh utsav started in the first place was to foster a feeling of community and unity among people and we again need to come together to reduce the damage we are doing on the environment.
Ways of minimizing the impact on environment-
Reducing the number of Ganesha idols. This can be done by having a few idols for a buildings, complexes and societies. Many families can come together and decide to celebrate the festival together, reducing the impact and increasing the joy of the festival.
Decreasing the size of Ganesh idols. Tougher regulations and more awareness are needed so that bigger idols are not immersed in the rivers and seas. These idols take more time to disintegrate and cause more damage to marine life.
Using eco friendly idols, paints and decorations. After reducing the number and size of the idols we need to look at the most eco friendly idol, paint and decorations and use it. Through innovation and originality we can surely celebrate ganesh utsav in the same lively manner but without harming our planet.
I URGE ALL MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Be a Campaigner
Here is what we found out after our research on the environmental impact of celebrating Ganesh chaturthi or Ganesh utsav
- Ganesha idols made from PoP or Plaster of Paris contain gypsum which add to the toxicity of water and harm marine life
- Ganesh idols are generally painted by colours that contain trace metals like mercury and cadmium which can be fatal for humans and other life forms once it enters food cycle
- Large size of Ganesh idols contain large amounts of PoP, large amount of paint, need more time to dissolve thus causing more harm to the environment
- Ganesh idols made from shaadu clay or clay from the river bed dissolved easily in water however it was still not a part of the ecosystem and deposits in the bed
- Ganesh idols made from paper mache also dissolved easily and are broken down by micro organisms in the water however they can create anerobic environment depleting oxygen levels in the water killing fish
- Eco friendly colours sold by paint companies and home-made colours like sendur, gulal, kum kum, turmeric, geru are much gentler on the environment but can still harm the marine life since they are also foreign to the eco system and their presence in large quantities
The only way we can reduce the impact of this festival is through community efforts. One of the reasons why Ganesh utsav started in the first place was to foster a feeling of community and unity among people and we again need to come together to reduce the damage we are doing on the environment.
Ways of minimizing the impact on environment-
Reducing the number of Ganesha idols. This can be done by having a few idols for a buildings, complexes and societies. Many families can come together and decide to celebrate the festival together, reducing the impact and increasing the joy of the festival.
Decreasing the size of Ganesh idols. Tougher regulations and more awareness are needed so that bigger idols are not immersed in the rivers and seas. These idols take more time to disintegrate and cause more damage to marine life.
Using eco friendly idols, paints and decorations. After reducing the number and size of the idols we need to look at the most eco friendly idol, paint and decorations and use it. Through innovation and originality we can surely celebrate ganesh utsav in the same lively manner but without harming our planet.
I URGE ALL MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Be a Campaigner
Our bappa needs you to protect environment and turn this festival, into a green one. Do your bit and help the cause.
Here is how you can become a Green Bappa Campaigner-
- Have a Green Celebration: Bring a Green Idol home, celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in an eco friendly manner and immerse the idol in a green way.
Green Idol
Green Decoration
Green Immersion
- Talk to others: Spread the message one person at a time. When someone asks about the idol, tell them why you chose to celebrate ganesh utsav in a green way and how they can do it too.
- Spread the message: Use your circle of influence your friends, family, colleagues and tell them about the cause. Use social networking sites, blogs, mails to spread awareness.
- Start a campaign in your area: Print posters, have an exhibition about harms of Plaster of Paris Ganesh idols, thermocol decorations and benefits of eco friendly idols and decorations.Thank you and feeling hopefulthat this year my friends,family and known ones will be a part of 'Naturalis" to spread the word around and save our environment.
- Regards,
- RAJVANSH RUNGTA.
tha
Green Idol
Green Decoration
Green Immersion
