Here is one reason why this Vinayaka Chaturthi celebration should please the friendly Lord Ganesha all the more, and, perhaps, prompt him to shower some more blessings on his worshippers.
During the festival scheduled for August 29, the trend is shifting towards the use of eco-friendly idols for the immersion ceremony.
Artisans who crafted idols from Plaster of Paris are now sculpting their work of art from eco-friendly materials.
Water solubleAt Pattanur, a group of artisans engaged in making Ganesha idols in various hues and shapes ahead of the festival are promoting eco-friendly clay idols which are water soluble.
The skill has been passed on to them by tradition and now they have honed their art to such levels that they can create clay idols measuring up to 13 feet in height.
R. Ravichandran, an artist who has been promoting eco-friendly celebration of festivals says that he has been making the clay idols for the last 30 years.
“There has been a greater awareness among the people on the need to be environmental friendly. The idols are made from a mixture of paper pulp, chalk powder, tapioca and natural gum and organic colours. The idols are biodegradable and easily dissolve in water without any hazardous side effects.”
Toxic chemicalsEven the organisers of public festivals are favouring these idols for installation at pandals.
Earlier most idols used to be made of Plaster of Paris and then turned colourful by painting with toxic chemicals. This had an adverse impact not only on humans but also on the marine life as they are immersed in the sea. Though Plaster of Paris idols may come a bit cheaper clay idols are more attractive and environmental friendly.
The price of these idols range from Rs.3,000 to Rs.18,000 and work commences from January.
“We have received orders from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Northern districts of Tamil Nadu. These idols are very light and easy to transport,” Ravichandran added.
Once Vinayaka Chathurti is over, preparations for Navarathri festival will keep them busy.
Meanwhile, the Puducherry Pollution Control Committee (PPCC) has issued guidelines that need to be followed before immersing the idols.
A team from the PPCC will also inspect manufacturers of idols to check use of Plaster of Paris and other toxic paints.
