Udayavani Campaign: A timely call for natural ingredients in worship

Making Ganesha idols from clay is an age-old tradition, as narrated in the Puranas. During the Bhadrapada month on Chaturthi, idols were made from freshly collected clay and worshipped. Before public celebrations became widespread, these idols were immersed in water on the same day. In a way, this practice embodied the peak of freshness in worship.

Over time, the rituals evolved. As aesthetics gained importance, the need to adorn even clay idols emerged. When this trend escalated, the government had to issue circulars recommending the use of natural colours. Even though these natural colours are not always adequately supplied in the market, who else but the government can issue circulars, guidelines, and orders? Issuing new directives every year has almost become a ritual in itself.

The medical community continues to warn about the dangers of artificial substances, which can lead to diseases. However, these warnings are rarely taken seriously. In religious matters, every community interprets traditions differently, often based on their time, place, and objects of worship, which can sometimes result in social harm.

Compared to the pollution happening globally, the pollution caused by colors used on Ganesha idols is minuscule. Yet, while other forms of pollution are left unchecked, the religious aspect often becomes a focal point, leading to louder protests. In this context, the growing number of households opting for Ganesha idols made with natural colors and ingredients is a positive trend. If some decoration is necessary, natural options like turmeric, vermillion, green leaf powder, and wild saffron can be used. Udayavani has been raising awareness about this for years, and as a result, the number of artists creating chemical-free Ganesha idols continues to rise each year.

Those worshipping Ganesha at home can take it a step further by collecting clay from the fields on the same day and making the idol themselves, returning to an ancient way of life. Even though only a small number of people might follow this practice, it signifies a deeper connection to the past. However, with many fields remaining fallow and rice farming nearly absent, the state of the land raises concerns about the future. All of this foreshadows the grim days ahead. To prevent such times from arriving, it seems there is no other option but to pray to Vighnaharatha during the festive celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi.

-Translated version of a Kannada article by Swamy