Why Sushant Singh Rajput feels the need for an environmentally-safe eco-Ganesha
As told to Upala KBR (DNA; September 27, 2015)
Though I haven’t celebrated Ganpati festival in Mumbai so far as I’ll be shifting into my new home soon, probably by next year we might be able to bring Lord Ganesha home and take his blessing. As a kid, I remember visiting homes to see Ganesha idols in different sizes and avatars, doing darshan and eating modaks. It was so much fun. The excitement would start decorating the pandal, welcoming Bappa amidst the dhols and a lot of dancing. I enjoy the fact that the festival brings families and people together. During Ganpati, I do visit friends and family’s homes and I look forward to the visits, since my busy schedule barely leaves me with the time to meet people regularly. I have been shooting for M S Dhoni - The Untold Story this week though, so I missed out on the music and madness during the visarjans.
I have always advocated the use of environmentally safe Ganesha idols. It is important to celebrate festivals responsibly. I have always encouraged people to have eco-friendly idols at home. I do understand that they cost more and require extra care, but they go a long way in saving the environment. Also it’s important for us to stress on the need to control noise levels. Most of the times we completely forget that noise pollution is escalating by the day and also contributes to rising stress levels.
It’s essential to preserve our environment for the future generations. I feel strongly about the issue of environment preservation and I have always stressed on it whenever I have spoken on the issue. It’s only fair that we work towards a better, cleaner, healthier tomorrow for this and the future generations to come. Post Ganpati and visarjan, honestly, it’s really sad to see that the Juhu beach and other beaches get completely destroyed. It’s disheartening to see various parts of Ganpati idols lying around. I wish people were more socially and environmentally responsible.
Dna’s ecoGanesha initiative is a step in the right direction to motivate and inspire the public to celebrate this much loved festival in the best manner possible. Kudos to you guys!