Kanniyakumari district administration lays down guidelines for immersion of Vinayaka idols
The Kanniyakumari district administration has issued strict guidelines for the upcoming Vinayaka Chaturthi festival, mandating the use of eco-friendly materials for idols. The use of toxic paints, Plaster of Paris, and non-biodegradable materials is prohibited to protect local waterbodies.
Why it matters
These regulations reflect growing efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of religious festivals on local ecosystems and water quality.
In view of Vinayaka Chaturthi, the district administration has issued guidelines on permissible materials for making idols of the deity for immersion.
According to a press release, only idols made up of natural, bio-degradable and eco-friendly raw materials without any toxic inorganic materials will be permitted for safe immersion in waterbodies.
The use of Plaster of Paris and thermocol is prohibited. Only dried flower components and straw may be used for making ornaments of idols, and natural resins of trees may be used to add shine to the idols.
The use of single-use plastics and thermocol shall not be permitted and eco-friendly materials such as straw should be used for structure or decoration of idols. The use of toxic and non-biodegradable chemical dyes and oil paints for painting idols should be prohibited.
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