WGSHA, Manipal University is set to celebrate Diwali in a sustainable way

Pics By Alphonse Mendonsa
Bellevision Media Network

Manipal, 21 Oct 2016: It’s not just about avoiding firecrackers and cutting down on sweets, here’s how the students of MSc HTM, Department of Allied Hospitality Studies, initiated the celebration of a ‘Green Diwali’.

 

’PARTHIVA’ the eco-friendly Diya making workshop was conducted by DAHS, Manipal University to promote and create awareness for eco-friendly products to celebrate Diwali. It was a small step taken by the students as well as faculty members to contribute to a major cause. A diya is a traditional way of spreading the light in Diwali. Students and faculty have made more than 400 diyas.

 

Chef Thiru, Vice Principal has inaugurated the workshop. Artist Surendran and sand artist Sreenath Manipal guided the students in Diya making. Clay for making diya was procured from Hiriyadka.

 

 

Earthen lamps need oil for illumination but the pollution will be less as these diyas will give light for 2-3 hours. Using these lamps will cut down the electricity bill.

 

“If we stop to think about the far reaching consequences our actions bring on this day, we may be able to create some positive changes that will benefit every being and lead to a brighter festival through sustainable ways” said Prof Valsaraj, Coordinator of DAHS.

 

Students have planned to organise community competitions both for adults and children, use organic and eco-friendly accessories and share their smile and spread cheer during this festival of lights through sustainable practices by following the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, rethink and refuse.

 

Diksha, Megha and Sushmita of MSc HTM coordinated the workshop. 75 students of MSc HTM, photo journalist Mr Alphosne Shankarpura ,faculty members of WGSHA and other constituent institutions of Manipal University were present.