A bittersweet Farewell, Durga idol immersed

 

A bittersweet farewell: Durga Puja Immersion and the Environmental Cost

Every year, Durga Puja culminates in a visually stunning yet emotionally charged event - the immersion of the Maa Durga idols. This Sunday, I found myself drawn to Bada Talab, hoping to capture the essence of this closing ritual. While the morning offered no activity, the evening unfolded with a vibrant display of devotion as devotees immersed idols from various puja pandals.

There's a profound beauty in this farewell. It signifies the Goddess' return to the celestial realm, her reunion with Lord Shiva in Kailash. It's a bittersweet ending, marking the triumph of good over evil and the promise of her return next year.

However, the environmental impact of these immersions casts a shadow on the celebration. Traditional clay idols have largely been replaced by those made of Plaster of Paris (PoP), often decorated with non-eco-friendly paints. These materials, laden with heavy metals, take years to dissolve, releasing toxins and depleting oxygen levels in rivers and lakes. Studies, like the one on the Hooghly River, reveal a significant rise in pollutants after Durga Puja.

#GreenDurgaPuja

Fortunately, a wave of change is rising. Environmental activists and concerned citizens are promoting greener alternatives. Mobile immersion units and eco-friendly idol materials are gaining traction. This year, the Allahabad High Court's ban on idol immersion in the Ganga and Yamuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh marked a welcome step.

Despite these efforts, widespread adoption remains a challenge. Bridging the gap between awareness and action requires continued efforts by environmentalists, government bodies, and religious leaders.

The future of Durga Puja lies in striking a balance between tradition and sustainability. Let's evolve our practices to ensure that Maa Durga's return continues to be a joyous occasion, not one that comes at the cost of our environment.

Picture detail- Idol of Goddess Durga is immersed at Bada Talab in Ranchi.

Text and Photos by:

Ashok Karan Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

Please share your thoughts and let's work together for a greener Durga Puja!