Just two days before Diwali, the government issued a circular banning the use of plastic and thermocol for decorating Narkasur effigies. The burning of Narkasur effigies is an age-old tradition observed on the eve of Diwali. Earlier, the effigies were burnt in the early hours of the morning, marking the beginning of the festival and symbolising the victory of good over evil. The legend of Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narkasur is deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and marks the beginning of the new year. This tradition cannot simply be forgotten or abandoned. Narkasur effigy competitions are held across Goa, with organisers offering prize money running into lakhs of rupees. This age-old tradition showcases the artistic skills and talent of the youth, who work for months, using various materials and considerable effort to create the best effigies.
The last-minute circular banning plastic and thermocol has left many youngsters in a dilemma. Considering that lakhs of rupees are spent on these effigies, the authorities should have issued the guidelines well in advance to give participants sufficient time to make the necessary arrangements. In some cases, the actual effigies are not burnt but preserved for reuse the following year, while smaller effigies made of wood or hay are burnt instead. This tradition should not be discontinued but can certainly be improved to minimise pollution. Plastic is used extensively in markets and various industries throughout the year, often causing far greater environmental damage than the limited use of such materials in Narkasur effigies once a year. The authorities should therefore adopt a balanced approach that protects the environment without undermining an age-old cultural tradition.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco
