Unmasking the Silent Threat: Mysuru Champions Eco-Friendly Idols for a Greener Future

Mysuru, a city renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant culture, is now championing a crucial environmental cause, urging its citizens to embrace eco-conscious celebrations. In a significant move to protect its precious water bodies and natural ecosystems, the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) Health Department, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), recently hosted a pivotal workshop.

The goal? To spark a critical dialogue and spread widespread awareness about the often-overlooked environmental hazards posed by Plaster of Paris (PoP) idols.

For years, the allure of intricately designed PoP idols has been a staple during festive seasons, particularly Ganesha Chaturthi. However, behind their temporary beauty lies a silent, enduring threat.

PoP, a non-biodegradable material, refuses to dissolve in water, accumulating at the bottom of lakes, rivers, and ponds. Worse still, these idols are often adorned with chemical dyes and heavy metals that leach into the water, contaminating it, depleting oxygen levels, and wreaking havoc on aquatic life.

This pollution not only endangers fish and other organisms but also poses significant long-term health risks to humans and animals reliant on these water sources.

The workshop served as a powerful platform to advocate for a harmonious blend of tradition and environmental responsibility. Experts passionately highlighted the superior alternatives available: natural clay idols, crafted from earth, which readily dissolve in water without leaving a trace of pollution.

They emphasized the beauty and safety of using water-soluble, natural colours and organic decorative materials, ensuring that our celebrations leave behind cherished memories, not environmental burdens. Adopting these eco-friendly practices allows us to honor our deities and traditions while safeguarding the planet for future generations.

Held with a clear focus on actionable change, the workshop gathered a diverse group of participants, including dedicated idol makers, concerned local residents, and vigilant health inspectors.

Through engaging presentations and open discussions, attendees gained a deeper understanding of the ecological footprint of their festive choices. The event was meticulously organized, illustrating Mysuru’s commitment to fostering an informed and environmentally conscious community.

Leading the charge, Dr.

Nagaraj, the MCC Health Officer, delivered a compelling address, underscoring the severe repercussions of PoP idols on our water bodies, groundwater, and overall public health. He passionately appealed to citizens, urging them to recognize their individual and collective responsibility in choosing sustainable options.

Echoing this sentiment, H.R. Mahadev, Environmental Officer at KSPCB, provided crucial insights into the National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines. He specifically called upon idol makers to transition towards using clay as their primary material, reinforcing KSPCB’s steadfast commitment to stringent monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations.

As Mysuru gears up for its vibrant festive calendar, the message from this workshop resonates loud and clear: celebrating with consciousness is the truest form of devotion.

By collectively embracing eco-friendly idols, the city is not just protecting its natural resources; it is also setting a brilliant example of how cultural traditions can evolve hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship. This initiative is a vital step towards ensuring that the joy of festivals contributes positively to the health and well-being of our planet, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for all.