A group of around 100 women in Nagpur has taken on the responsibility of preventing pollution in rivers and ponds caused by Plaster of Paris idols after Diwali. The women are collecting Ganesh and Lakshmi idols worshipped in households across the city and carrying out immersion in agricultural fields in a pollution-free manner.
Started in 2019, the Initiative Continues to Grow
The campaign began in 2019 under the banner of Tejaswini Manch. In its first year, only about 250 idols were collected. However, the participation has steadily increased over the years. So far, more than 45,000 idols have been immersed without causing pollution. This year alone, around 4,500 idols have already been collected and immersed.
Idols are Dissolved Before Immersion
According to the organisation’s president Kiran Moondra, the idols made from Plaster of Paris are first dissolved in sodium bicarbonate solution. Only after the idols completely dissolve are the remains placed in the fields. This ensures that the soil and water sources do not get contaminated.
Respectful Handling of Metal Idols and Religious Literature
Along with POP idols, the group also collects religious literature and scriptures for dignified disposal. Idols made of copper, silver and brass are also collected and later returned to homes for worship again. A member of the group, Sheetal Gautam, has converted her own agricultural land into a designated immersion site.
Movement Expands to Other Cities
This initiative that started in Nagpur has now spread to cities like Amravati, Wardha, Mumbai and Pune. In these cities too, groups of women have taken charge of pollution-free idol immersion. Collection centers have been set up in multiple areas, and e-rickshaws are used to collect idols from households.
Support from Local Administration
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation has provided a designated immersion space near Anand Talkies in Sitabuldi to support the effort. The group works from November to January each year to collect and immerse idols responsibly.