Mandya: In a unique campaign to promote an eco-friendly Ganesha festival, clay idols of Gowri and Ganesha were distributed door-to-door across Mandya on Sunday.The initiative, organised by the Ellaralogondagi Mankuthimma Trust, aims to create awareness among the public about the harmful environmental impact of plaster of paris (PoP) idols. As part of the campaign, around 1,000 clay idols were distributed to households.Adding a distinctive touch to the awareness drive, volunteers dressed as Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Swami Vivekananda and Bal Gangadhar Tilak distributed the idols and interacted with residents, urging them to celebrate the festival in an environmentally responsible manner. The campaign was formally inaugurated by zilla panchayat chief executive officer KR Nandini.The organisers appealed to citizens to refrain from using PoP idols and opt for traditional clay idols, which dissolve naturally in water and cause less harm to the environment. The campaign also sought to convey the message that religious celebrations can be conducted without compromising on ecological concerns.



