Pune Sculptor Innovates Environmentally Friendly Ganesha Idol With ‘Ravindra Mixture’
Pune, 18th August 2023: Abhijit Dhondphale, a pioneering sculptor, has introduced a remarkable solution to mitigate the ecological impact caused by traditional Plaster of Paris (POP) idols used during Ganesha festivities. Dhondphale’s innovative creation not only eliminates the need for environmentally harmful materials but also yields Ganesha idols lighter in weight compared to those made from shadu clay.
Remarkably, Dhondphale’s innovative creation has been granted a ‘patent,’ marking a significant milestone in his field. As the first sculptor to secure a patent for such a technique, he has aptly named the formulation after his father, resulting in the patented ‘Ravindra Mixture.’
Dhondaphale shared insights about this breakthrough mixture during a press conference held on Thursday. Rigorous testing, including assessments of dissolution time upon contact with water and its overall environmental impact, was conducted to ascertain the viability of this invention.
The patent, officially registered in July 2019, has recently been formally approved after completing the requisite procedures. Each year, as the Ganesha festival approaches, devotees are confronted with the decision of selecting idol materials. Traditional options like shadu idols are known for their weight, while POP idols involve chemical treatments that hinder their biodegradability.
Dhondphale affirms that the ‘Ganeshmurti’ crafted from the Ravindra mixture is a genuinely eco-conscious alternative. This innovative creation underscores a progressive step toward more sustainable celebrations, aligning with contemporary environmental concerns.
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