Women's Group Turns Dung into Divine Idols

Ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi and Hartalika Teej, a self-help group in Prayagraj has found a novel way to celebrate by creating idols from cow dung. The Asharani Foundation, spearheaded by Abha Singh, consists of six women who meticulously shape cow dung into deities like Lord Ganesh and the divine couple Shiv-Parvati. They also craft other decorative items using this sustainable material. These unique, eco-friendly creations have become highly sought after, with the group receiving numerous orders from within Prayagraj and surrounding areas. The process involves drying the dung, removing impurities, grinding it into powder, and mixing it with guar gum before molding and painting with natural colors. This initiative highlights the increasing recognition of cow dung's value beyond its medicinal properties, meeting a growing market for environmentally conscious products. Hartalika Teej, dedicated to Lord Shiv and Goddess Parvati for marital bliss, and Ganesh Chaturthi, welcoming Lord Ganesha, are both scheduled for Monday, making the demand for these special idols particularly timely.