Image Source: Free Press Journal
Introduction
In an inspiring blend of tradition and creativity, celebrated chef Pankaj Bhadouria has marked her ninth consecutive year of making Ganesh idols by hand as part of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Known primarily for her culinary prowess, Chef Pankaj has passionately embraced this annual ritual, using her artistic sensibilities to honor Lord Ganesh, while also promoting eco-friendly practices.
A Personal Ritual Turns into an Annual Tradition
• Every year, Chef Pankaj dedicates time in August or September—coinciding with Ganesh Chaturthi—to sculpt idols of Lord Ganesh from sustainable and eco-friendly materials, setting a strong example for her fans and followers.
• Her journey with Ganesh idol making began nine years ago, born from a desire to express gratitude and creativity while encouraging environmental responsibility.
• The chef emphasizes the spiritual connection she feels with the process, finding peace and fulfillment in the hands-on approach, away from commercial, pre-made idols.
Key Highlights
• Chef Pankaj’s idols are exclusively crafted from clay, ensuring they are biodegradable and safe for aquatic life during immersion rituals.
• She shares step-by-step updates, photographs, and stories about the process on her social media platforms, inspiring her audience to embrace the idea of homemade idols.
• The process is a family affair—Pankaj’s children often join in, turning idol-making into a joyful, learning-filled family activity each year.
Real-Time Insights into This Year’s Celebration
• For the ninth edition of this cherished ritual, Chef Pankaj selected natural red clay, kneading it into form with her own hands rather than using any industrial molds.
• She meticulously documents stages from preparing the clay, shaping the idol, drying it naturally, and adding simple, organic colors.
• This year, she completed her idol days ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, sharing her excitement and reflecting on the fulfillment of continuing this personal tradition.
Cultural Significance and Community Impact
• Chef Pankaj’s initiative contributes to a growing trend of eco-friendly celebrations, at a time when concerns about pollution caused by Plaster of Paris idols and synthetic paints are at a peak.
• Followers and home cooks across India have lauded Pankaj’s initiative, with many pledging to try their own hand at idol-making, fostering a sense of community and motivation.
• By publicizing the process through her online presence, Pankaj champions the cause of celebrating festivals with heart, creativity, and respect for nature.
Reflections from the Artist
• Chef Pankaj frequently speaks of the meditative and therapeutic effect of sculpting, stating that crafting an idol by hand offers a spiritual connection far beyond what a purchased idol can provide.
• Through live videos and posts, she answers questions about techniques, clay selection, and sustainable paints, making her expertise accessible for anyone interested in the tradition.
Encouragement for Others
• Chef Pankaj encourages people of all ages, especially children, to give idol-making a try—emphasizing that skill level or artistic perfection are not as important as sincerity and sustainability.
• Her journey over nine years has fostered a loyal digital community, several members of which credit her for advancing their own eco-friendly festival traditions.
Looking Forward
• As the ten-year milestone approaches, Chef Pankaj has hinted at plans to expand her educational outreach, possibly hosting workshops or live demonstrations to further spread the joy and environmental message of homemade Ganesh idols.
Source: Times of India, Chef Pankaj Bhadouria’s official social media pages
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