Nabarangpur:4th Sept 2025: In an age when excessive use of chemical fertilizers is degrading the fertility of agricultural land, a local artisan from Nabarangpur has come up with a unique and eco-friendly solution. Through his craft, he is delivering a powerful message to society by creating a green Ganesh idol made entirely of natural materials like millets (mandia) and maize, instead of toxic paints or plastic.
This innovative Ganesh idol has caught public attention in Gadabaguda area of the town, where the idol is on display. Crafted without using any chemical colors or plastic, the idol was made from a mixture of clay, 25 kg of finger millet (mandia), and 3 kg of maize husk.
The artisan behind this creation is Yudhishthira Gouda, who has skillfully transformed these natural ingredients into a beautiful eco-Ganesh idol. The idol carries symbolic features:
A plough on the shoulder, representing agriculture
A bottle of ragi porridge (mandia pej) in hand, signifying local, sustainable food habits
This unique depiction of Lord Ganesha as a farmer deity aims to raise awareness about sustainable agriculture and the importance of reducing chemical use in farming. The idol also reflects the cultural identity and traditional food habits of tribal and rural Odisha.
Yudhishthira collected millet and maize husk from local households, spending only around ₹2,000–3,000 to build the entire idol. His initiative has received praise from various sections of society, especially for promoting environmental consciousness in a culturally rooted and low-cost way.
In a farming-centric district like Nabarangpur, this symbolic initiative reminds us of the urgent need to embrace organic farming practices and revive traditional wisdom — all while celebrating festivals in an eco-friendly manner.