A.V. College, Gagan Mahal distributes 1k eco-friendly idols, 21 sacred leaves for Ganesh Chaturthi
Hyderabad: In an effort to revive traditions and promote sustainability, A.V. College of Arts Science and Commerce in Gagan Mahal, Hyderabad, is celebrating Ganesh Chathurthi with an eco-friendly approach. The college’s management and students distribute nearly 1,000 clay Ganesha idols and 21 sacred leaves to the public. Each leaf is accompanied by a specific mantra, allowing devotees to offer prayers to Lord Ganesha with greater meaning.
Speaking with the Hyderabad Mail, Dr. P. Padma, Head of the Department of Botany and Vice-Principal at A.V. College of Arts Science and Commerce, said this initiative is part of the college’s Prerna Programme, which began in 2011. “We aim to align cultural heritage with environmental responsibility,” Dr. Padma explained. “By promoting the use of clay Ganesha idols and distributing the Ekavimshathi Patra means 21 types of sacred leaves, we hope to make Ganesh Chathurthi more eco-friendly and meaningful.”
She said, “We carefully pick 21 sacred leaves from the college garden or purchase them externally. Each leaf is accompanied by its common name, botanical name, medicinal importance, and the corresponding mantra. These leaves are then packaged into envelopes along with a clay Ganesha idol, creating 1,000 sets for distribution to the public.”
Dr. Padma explained the significance of providing the mantras with the leaves. “We want people to understand the value and purpose of each plant,” she said. “By promoting these traditions, we are contributing to biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.”
Dr. Padma further said, “The eco-friendly Ganesha idol is made completely from earthen mud, which is rich in minerals. One can immerse the Ganesh idol at home in a bucket full of water and let it dissolve. After the idol dissolves, the water can be used to fertilise plants.”
The Prerna Programme at A.V. College of Arts, Science, and Commerce in Gagan Mahal, Hyderabad, shows how cultural and religious traditions can harmonise with sustainability. By promoting eco-friendly practices, such as using clay idols and offering sacred leaves, the initiative explains how individuals can honor their heritage while also protecting the environment. The college hopes this effort will encourage others to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi in a more sustainable and meaningful way.
