FAQ - P U N A R A V A R T A N

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I donate the clay sludge after immersion?

We recommend that each individual or family should do the immersion of the clay idols at home itself in a bucket of clean water. Before you pour the water place a largish cloth on the bottom of the bucket. Once the clay has disintegrated pull the ends of the cloth together to collect the clay sediments and dry them – once dry tie the ends of the cloth together to form a potli – drop the potli at any one of our drop off points closest to you.

Watch a video here to see a demonstration.
Why should I donate the clay sludge?
Where can I drop the clay sludge?
What is natural clay?

Natural clay is a mineral that is extracted from the ground. Also known as Bentonite or white clay – it can be found in several locations across India but the largest mines are in Gujarat and West Bengal. It is transported country-wide to other states from here.
What is the impact of natural clay on the environment?

Since clay is a mineral it is non renewable – which means that once you extract it out of the ground you cannot put it back nor can it be grown. The mining industry negatively impacts the ecology of the location where it is situated.

Additionally, when clay from one ecosystem is disposed of in another ecosystem it takes longer to integrate with the environment.

When this happens at a very large scale, as is the case in the Ganesh festival it damages the environment.
Is clay better than Plaster of Paris ?

Plaster of Paris is a man made substance – when the powder is mixed with water it undergoes a chemical reaction which cannot be reversed.

Natural clay mixes with water and absorbs it to change in consistency – however it does not undergo a chemical change. When the water is evaporates, the clay returns to its original structure.

Between the two materials it is recommended to use clay because it can easily integrate back into the environment as it is moisture absorbent.
Where do the Ganesh idols go after the visarjan ?

Currently the city of Pune does not have an ecological disposal system in place for clay nor Plaster of Paris idols. The effort of the Punaravartan campaign is to create such a system by returning the clay to the artisans. Currently the bulk of the clay and plaster of paris is thrown into quarries at the edge of the city.
If clay is just a different kind of soil, then can I put it in my garden?
Which is the best material for Ganesh idols?
Does Plaster of Paris dissolve in water?
Has the government banned Plaster of Paris idols?

The Central Pollution Control Board has directed that Plaster of Paris idols not be immersed in natural water bodies. While some local authorities have imposed bans in States such as Karnataka and Goa, there is no official legislation banning PoP idols, and the matter is subject to litigation in higher courts.
Why are we encouraging the shift to clay when it is a non renewable resource?

Clay is a non-renewable resource that can be used in a circular manner. Once collected, it can be used by artisans for further sculpture and by architects for natural building. It is also not toxic to the environment. Of course, this only works well if there is reuse and recycling in the proper manner.
Can Plaster of Paris be reused also?

It is difficult to convert Plaster of Paris back to its original form post its reaction with water. Treatment or further scientific processing is required before it can be used for building other items. It needs to be dehydrated, heated, and broken down into powder form before any further usage.