At Global Talent International School (GTIS) in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, the spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrated in a unique and eco-conscious way! On August 17th, GTIS hosted a hands-on Eco-Ganesha Idol-making Workshop, where students from playgroup to class 5, along with teachers, came together to create eco-friendly Ganesh idols. The event was a vibrant, creative, and fun-filled celebration of sustainability, culture, and learning
What is Eco-Ganesha and Why It Matters?
Eco-Ganesha refers to the environmentally-friendly Ganesh idols made using natural materials such as Shadu Mati (clay) and organic paints. These idols are not only biodegradable but also come infused with seeds, allowing them to be immersed in water bodies without causing harm to the environment. The Eco-Ganesha workshop at GTIS was a step forward in promoting eco-consciousness, teaching young minds the importance of protecting our planet, even while celebrating a beloved festival like Ganesh Chaturthi.
GTIS Promotes Eco-Consciousness from Childhood
At GTIS, we believe in fostering a sense of environmental responsibility from an early age. The Eco-Ganesha workshop was not just about making idols; it was about encouraging our students to think about sustainability in their daily lives. By using Shadu Mati to make the idols, we highlighted the importance of using natural materials and keeping in mind the long-term impact of our actions on the planet.
From playgroup students to older kids in class 5, every participant had the chance to create their own eco-friendly Ganesh idol. With the guidance of expert artists and teachers, students learned how to shape the clay, decorate the idols with natural colors, and infuse them with seeds. This activity not only nurtured their creativity but also instilled a deeper understanding of how even small actions can make a big difference in preserving the environment.
An Event for the Whole School Community
The Eco-Ganesha workshop was open to all students at Global Talent International School, from 3 to 13 years old. It was a true community effort, where teachers and students collaborated in the creative process. The event had a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with everyone working together to create beautiful idols. The workshop took place in the school’s well-equipped art and craft area, with plenty of materials like clay, brushes, and natural paints provided for the students to get hands-on.
As the students crafted their idols, they learned more about the importance of environmental sustainability. The workshop was not just an artistic experience—it was a lesson in making more conscious choices that help protect our planet. The school also provided eco-friendly materials like old newspapers, water bottles, and napkins to ensure that the entire event remained sustainable.
Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi in an Eco-Friendly Way
Ganesh Chaturthi is a time for celebration, but it’s also a time to reflect on how we can celebrate in a way that is respectful to nature. Traditionally, many Ganesh idols are made with harmful, non-biodegradable materials that cause pollution when they’re immersed in water. At GTIS, we wanted to make sure that our celebration was different.
The Eco-Ganesha idols created during this workshop were made from natural clay, and they were infused with seeds—a symbol of growth and renewal. The idea was simple: once the festival ends, the idols can be immersed in water, allowing the seeds to sprout and grow into beautiful plants. This initiative is part of our commitment to teaching eco-consciousness to our students and promoting sustainability as part of our school culture.
Photos and Memories: A Beautiful Moment in Time
The workshop was a huge success, with 16 students and teachers actively participating in the event. The students worked with enthusiasm, pride, and creativity to bring their Eco-Ganesha idols to life. We captured some memorable moments through group photos and individual shots, showing the joy and excitement that filled the air.
It was heartwarming to see the young learners not only crafting their idols but also asking thoughtful questions about sustainability and how they could contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. Their excitement for learning and celebrating in an eco-friendly way is a testament to the growing awareness among the younger generation.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Tradition of Eco-Friendly Celebrations
The Eco-Ganesha workshop at GTIS was not just a one-time event—it was a part of our ongoing commitment to promoting sustainability, creativity, and cultural awareness. As we continue to celebrate festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, our goal is to inspire more and more students to adopt eco-friendly practices and preserve our rich cultural heritage in a responsible way.
We look forward to hosting more workshops and events that help our students not only connect with their traditions but also develop a deep sense of responsibility toward the environment. After all, the future of our planet depends on the actions of today’s children—and we are proud to be part of their journey toward a sustainable tomorrow.
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Greener Future
At GTIS, we are dedicated to providing an education that goes beyond textbooks, one that includes valuable lessons on sustainability, community, and environmental stewardship. The Eco-Ganesha Workshop was a small but significant step in shaping our students into future leaders who understand the importance of taking care of the environment. We are proud to have been part of such a meaningful event and look forward to more initiatives that inspire positive change in the world around us.
