Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayagar Chaturthi, is a festival that transforms streets, towns, and cities across India into vibrant celebrations of joy and devotion. As the festival approaches, the rhythmic beats of drums and traditional instruments fill the air, heralding the grand procession of Lord Ganesha, the beloved elephant-headed deity. This annual celebration, rich in tradition and enthusiasm, captures the heart of countless devotees, each year adding a new layer to its cultural tapestry.
A month before Vinayagar Chaturthi, artisans begin the meticulous process of creating Ganesh idols, a craft steeped in tradition and skill. Vignesh Vinayagar, a 29-year-old expert in clay idol making from Ponneri, Tamil Nadu, has been honing his craft for 15 years. He reflects on his family’s long-standing connection to this sacred art: “This is a family profession. My grandfather started the business in the 70s, my father continued in the 90s, and I started contributing from my childhood to make Vinayagar idols for the festival.”
In earlier times, Ganesh idols were sculpted from pure clay, harmonizing with nature. However, as materials evolved, many turned to fiber, plastic, and chemicals, which posed a significant environmental risk. Idols made from these materials would dissolve in water, potentially harming aquatic life.
Recognizing the environmental impact, new regulations have prompted artisans like Vignesh to adapt their methods. “We now use tree seeds and plant-based materials in the manufacturing of Ganesh idols,” Vignesh explains. This shift not only preserves tradition but also supports ecological balance.
Furthermore, Vignesh says that,’we create Ganesh idols using ingredients like pearl millet flour and greens, which are consumed by aquatic organisms, in a way that serves as a good feast for these water-dwelling life forms.’
Creating these statues is no small feat. Vignesh describes the intricate process: “We create statues ranging from 1 feet to 30 feet tall. For larger statues, we craft the hands, legs, body and head separately and then assemble them.” Each idol requires a delicate balance of artistic vision and technical skill, reflecting the deep reverence and meticulous care that goes into every piece.
Despite their beauty and significance, the finished statues face numerous challenges. Exposure to sunlight can cause damage, and unexpected rainfall poses a risk. Vignesh notes, “The process of making statues involves several challenges, and the difficulties increase once the statues are completed.”
As Ganesh Chaturthi arrives, the fruits of this labor are displayed in homes and public spaces, where the community comes together to celebrate. The idols, now vibrant and full of life, are worshipped with fervent devotion. The festival culminates in the grand immersion procession, where the idols are carried through the streets before being immersed in water, symbolizing the deity’s return to his heavenly abode.
Ganesh Chaturthi is more than a festival; it is a celebration of creativity, devotion, and unity. It embodies the spirit of renewal and reverence, reminding us of the importance of both preserving tradition and respecting the environment. As the beats of the drums echo and the colors of the festival shine brightly, the essence of Ganesh Chaturthi comes alive, bringing people together in joyous harmony.
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