Rajnandgaon’s Trimurti Ganesh Utsav Samiti continues its tradition of combining religious devotion with social awareness through its Ganesh pandal. This year, the committee is using the festival to highlight the issue of child labor and the importance of education.
The Ganesh pandal, situated in Shankarpur, Ward Number 7, features Lord Ganesha holding a book amongst children. The overall theme focuses on the detrimental effects of child labor and the positive impact of education. The displays underscore the belief that education is key to a better future. The pandal creatively presents two facets of the same idol – one showcasing life with education and the other, life without. Hindi and English alphabets are prominently displayed, reinforcing the message. The committee also uses flex banners to spread awareness and encourage the education of children.
Last year’s pandal addressed environmental concerns, using religious themes to raise awareness about deforestation. This year’s focus on child labor reflects growing concerns about children’s access to education. Lord Ganesha, representing wisdom and intelligence, is delivering the message of education.
For around three decades, the Trimurti Ganesh Utsav Samiti has been organizing these installations. A team primarily consisting of young people is responsible for creating these socially relevant displays. Ravi Jagne, the committee’s president, highlights the effectiveness of combining faith with social messages to inspire positive change, which is the driving force behind the committee’s chosen themes.