PoP Ganesha idol ban in Belagavi opposed by artisans
Belagavi: In a proactive move to safeguard natural waterbodies, the Belagavi district administration imposed an early and strict ban on the preparation and sale of plaster of paris (PoP) Ganesha idols ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which is scheduled in August.
Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrated on a grand scale in Belagavi, involves the installation and immersion of thousands of Ganesha idols across the city and district. Concerned about the environmental impact of PoP idols, the administration directed artisans to switch to eco-friendly materials and use only natural colours in idol decoration.
Deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan recently held a meeting with local idol makers, urging them to comply with the guidelines issued by the Pollution Control Board.
Following this, the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) scheduled a separate meeting with city-based idol makers for Thursday, to reinforce the directive.
"We have planned the meeting with the idol makers on Thursday, after which an official notification banning PoP idols will be issued," confirmed Hanumant Kaladagi, environmental engineer at the BCC.
However, the move drew criticism from local artisans. Members of the Belgaum Murtikar Sanghatana, an association of idol makers, expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the administration's blanket ban does not consider the unique situation in Belagavi.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn
IC Markets
Đăng ký
Undo
"In Belagavi, all Ganesha idols are immersed in artificial tanks, and not in natural waterbodies. So, there is no threat of pollution to lakes, wells, or streams," argued a member.
The ban particularly impacts the manufacture of large-sized idols, which are predominantly made from PoP. Over 80 mandals annually install grand Ganesha idols in public places for the 10-day festival, culminating in a massive procession and immersion on the 11th day.
Idol makers contend that crafting such large-scale idols from clay is often impractical due to their weight and propensity to develop cracks, which is considered inauspicious. PoP idols, in contrast, are lighter and more durable.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
From Rs 5 to Rs 2,300: India's humble Parle-G is a luxury in Gaza; a father's viral post shows war reality
NEW DELHI: In India, Parle-G biscuits are synonymous with simplicity, a nostalgic tea-time snack, a budget-friendly staple found in almost every household. In war-ravaged Gaza, however, the iconic Indian biscuit has taken on a grim new identity: a luxury item, symbolising the desperation of a population teetering on the brink of famine. A viral social media post by Mohammed Jawad, a Palestinian living in Gaza, has spotlighted the stark realities of wartime scarcity. The video shows his young daughter, Rafif, clutching a pack of Parle-G biscuits, a rare treat in a region suffering from an acute food crisis. Jawad revealed he paid more than €24 (approximately Rs 2,342) for the packet, which usually costs less than Rs 5 in Indian markets and around Rs 100 in international grocery stores. 'Even though the price jumped from €1.5 to over €24, I just couldn't deny Rafif her favorite treat,' he wrote on X (formerly Twitter), capturing hearts — and shock — across the globe, particularly among Indian users for whom Parle-G is an enduring symbol of affordability and childhood. His post quickly went viral on social media with many Indian users tagging government officials and the Parle company for help. A user wrote: "India sent Parle G to Palestinians as an Aid but Aid trucks get captured by Hamas and they sell the food and medicines in black to the hungry Palestinians. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like ¿Tienes $105? Inviértelos en CFD de Amazon y observa cómo crecen sin salir de casa. Empezar ahora Subscríbete Undo Rs 5 Parle-G being sold at Rs 2,500. This is the real face of the so-called resistance exploiting the misery of innocents." Replying to the post, Jawad said, "Some people think the aid that comes for the people of Gaza is distributed fairly. But the truth is that the occupation has recruited many agents and thieves to steal this aid and sell it on the market at sky-high prices. For example, flour is sold for around $500, and sugar is sold for about $90 per kilogram. All basic goods are sold at insane prices. Some people, who can't afford to buy, risk their lives just to get what they need. Meanwhile, others steal large quantities and sell them in the market for huge profits." This extraordinary price spike is a direct result of the ongoing humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza. Since the breakdown of a ceasefire in March, Israel has imposed a near-total blockade on aid entering the Palestinian enclave. The restriction has triggered a sharp surge in malnutrition rates, especially among children, and has devastated local supply chains. According to a UN report released on Thursday, the rate of acute malnutrition in children under five in Gaza has nearly tripled since February. Of nearly 50,000 children screened in late May, 5.8 per cent were diagnosed with acute malnutrition — up from 4.7 per cent just weeks earlier. The figure marks a dramatic rise from the situation in February, when a temporary pause in hostilities had allowed for freer aid flow, news agency Reuters reported. The UN-backed "nutrition cluster" also noted a spike in cases of severe acute malnutrition, a deadly condition that leaves children extremely vulnerable to infections. Treatment centers in northern Gaza and Rafah have reportedly been forced to shut down due to lack of medical supplies, damage from the ongoing conflict, or targeted attacks — claims Israel denies, maintaining that some facilities are used by Hamas for military operations. Doctors donating blood, children dying of starvation In a harrowing statement, the international medical NGO Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said doctors in Gaza are now donating their own blood to treat patients, following incidents where dozens of civilians were gunned down while trying to access food aid. Palestinian officials reported at least 29 starvation-related deaths, mostly among children and the elderly — in just a few days last month. These figures come amid growing scrutiny of aid distribution mechanisms and mounting criticism of Israel's restrictions, even as Tel Aviv insists it vets all aid to prevent diversion by Hamas, a charge the group denies.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Top 4 powerful Ganesha mantras to eliminate any challenges in life
Lord Ganesha, revered as the 'Vighnaharta'—the remover of obstacles—is the first deity invoked before any auspicious beginning. Whether you're going through a difficult phase, embarking on a new journey, or simply seeking divine support, chanting these four powerful Ganesha mantras can bring peace, strength, and clarity to your path. 1. Om Gan Ganapataye Namah Meaning: I bow to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the leader of all beings. Benefits: This mantra is especially helpful when you're feeling fearful, anxious, or stuck. Regular chanting helps dissolve fear, boost self-confidence, and create a spiritual shield, making it ideal during uncertain times or when starting something new. 2. Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Karyeshu Sarvada Meaning: O Lord with a curved trunk and mighty body, whose brilliance equals a million suns, please remove all obstacles from my path—now and always. Benefits: Chanting this mantra is like holding Lord Ganesha's hand through life's difficulties. It invokes his divine grace to clear hurdles, both seen and unseen, ensuring a smooth path in current and future endeavors. 3. Aum Ekadantaya Vidmahe, Vakratundaya Dhimahi, Tanno Danti Prachodayat Meaning: We meditate upon the One with a single tusk (Ekadanta) and a curved trunk (Vakratunda). May that tusked Lord awaken and guide our intellect. Benefits: When you're clouded by self-doubt or struggling with important decisions, this mantra becomes a prayer to Bappa for mental clarity, focused thought, and inner guidance. It strengthens your connection to divine wisdom. 4. Om Namo Siddhi Vinayakaya Sarva Karya Kartrey Sarva Vighna Prashamnay Sarvarjaya Vashyakarnaya Sarvajan Sarva Stree Purush Aakarshanaya Shreeng Om Swaha Meaning: I bow to Lord Siddhi Vinayaka, the giver of success in all endeavors, remover of obstacles, grantor of victory and influence, and the one who draws love, respect, and goodwill from all beings. Benefits: If you're entering a new chapter in life, whether it's a new job, business venture, relationship, or home—this mantra blesses you with Ganesha's compassionate energy to make the impossible possible. It brings success, attraction, and favor from those around you. Final Thought: Lord Ganesha's mantras are not just sounds, they're vibrations of divine grace. When chanted with devotion and regularity, they can bring about powerful transformations in your inner and outer life. Choose the mantra that resonates with your journey and let Bappa guide your path. This article is written by Rajini Dubey. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Do you wake up at 3:33 AM often? The spiritual reason might surprise you
Have you ever jolted awake in the middle of the night only to see the clock flash 3:33? At first, it may seem like a coincidence, but when it starts happening frequently, there could be a deeper spiritual message behind this mysterious wake-up call. According to numerology and spiritual traditions, waking up at 3:33 AM is considered a divine nudge. It's a moment when the universe or your higher self is trying to get your attention. The Significance of 333 in Numerology In numerology, the number 3 represents creativity, positivity, and success. When this number appears three times in a row, its power is amplified. The number 333 becomes a powerful sign of divine communication, spiritual alignment, and good fortune. If you find yourself waking up at 3:33 AM, it's believed that your angel spirit or higher guidance is encouraging you to trust your intuition and make an important decision you've been avoiding. The 'Witching' Hour The time between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM is often referred to as the 'Witching Hour' or 'Devil's Hour.' In spiritual traditions, it's believed to be the time when the veil between the physical and spiritual realms is thinnest. Waking up during this time, especially at 3:33 AM, suggests you are in a heightened state of receptivity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo You may be open to receiving messages from your subconscious, ancestors, or guardian angels. A Call to Realignment Repeatedly waking up at 3:33 AM could also indicate that something in your life is out of alignment. This could involve your career, relationships, mental health, or spiritual path. It's a gentle reminder from the universe to slow down, reflect, and reassess your life choices. What to Do If You Wake Up at 3:33 AM Take a few deep breaths to calm your body and mind. Journal your thoughts: Is there something you're ignoring or suppressing during the day that resurfaces at night? Sit in meditation, ask your higher self for clarity, and remain open to signs and synchronicities. Final Thought: If you keep waking up at 3:33 AM, don't dismiss it as random. It might just be the universe's way of guiding you toward healing, growth, and transformation. Pay attention—your spirit may be trying to speak. This article is written by Rajini Dubey. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
