Even though he has stopped making idols using artificial colours, as it contains harmful chemicals like lead and chromium, there seems to be an increasing demand for the same.
“I am aware that lead is poisonous and hence harmful for health and our eco-system.
However, the public oblivious to the fact continues to demand for colourful Ganesh idols,” he observed. Every year, Ganesha festival not only brings its share of joy in the lives of the people, but also loads of lead that pollutes water bodies during immersion of idols, he added.
The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) conducted a workshop on 'Eco-friendly Ganesha festival' recently to create awareness among people about the importance of buying idols devoid of colours. Speaking on the occasion Dr Thuppil Venkatesh, Director of National Centre for Lead Poisoning said there are nearly 1.2 crore Ganesha idols being made every year in the State.
Published 17 August 2010, 20:10 IST