Malingaraya Pujar
CH NEWS
With Ganesh Chaturthi approaching, traditional idol makers in Gadag district have appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the state Chief Minister to support eco-friendly clay Ganesh idols and protect their traditional livelihood.
Muttanna Bharadi, General Secretary of the Gadag District Ganesh Idol Makers Association, submitted the appeal on behalf of local artisans. The association said the request represents the concerns of thousands of traditional idol makers and environmentally conscious citizens who want celebrations to protect both nature and local art.
The artisans have raised concern over the growing use of Plaster of Paris, or POP, idols and chemical-based paints. They said such idols can pollute lakes and other water bodies because they do not dissolve easily after immersion. The association has been spreading awareness about the environmental damage caused by these materials for several years. However, the continued availability of POP idols has made it harder for families depending on traditional clay idol making to earn a stable income. Artisans believe stronger government action is needed to change this situation.
The association also welcomed the Prime Minister’s recent message in his Mann Ki Baat programme, in which he encouraged people to buy locally made clay Ganesh idols. According to the artisans, the appeal has given fresh confidence and respect to traditional craftsmen across the country. They said promoting handmade clay idols can bring together India’s cultural traditions, the Swadeshi spirit and environmental protection. For local makers, such support could help preserve an art passed from one generation to another while also encouraging safer festival practices.
The artisans have placed three main demands before the government. They want strict action against the manufacture and sale of POP idols, better marketing support and incentives for local clay idol makers, and wider awareness campaigns in schools, colleges and public institutions about environmentally friendly celebrations. They believe these steps can protect water bodies while creating stronger markets for traditional craftsmen. The Gadag association now hopes the Prime Minister and Chief Minister will respond positively to their appeal. For the artisans, saving the clay idol tradition means protecting both livelihoods and nature for future generations.