DNA (September 13, 2018)

Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, who will be seen together for the first time in Sui Dhaaga: Made In India, which highlights the skills of Indian artisans, are promoting the idea of eco Ganesha. Varun says, “Our Ganpati is made of clay and vibrant threads in truly Sui Dhaaga-style. It’s beautiful and I love how colourful it is.”

Anushka adds, “The artist (Abhishek Sawant) worked tirelessly and has created a beautiful idol that is truly representative of how immensely talented the craftsmen of our country are.” Both the actors spoke to After Hrs about how we need to use environment-friendly means to celebrate the elephant-headed God.

Over the last few years there is a huge emphasis on green Ganesha but what new measures should be taken?
Anushka: It’s important that while we celebrate the festival, we also take social responsibility in doing so. The environment gets polluted due to the non-biodegradable idols. It is not good for the aquatic life and hampers their well-being. We should take an oath to not harm the environment because the very deity we pray to is here to protect all species over here. So as human beings, we should also save nature.
Varun: I think the awareness is spreading. We can’t harm nature anymore. The Sui Dhaaga team has taken an initiative of making a Ganpati out of clay and thread, which is biodegradable. I think that’s the way we should ring in Ganesh Utsav.

Varun, since you are a Mumbai boy, what does the festival mean to you?
It’s an event that brings the entire country together. I live near Juhu beach and have seen the festivities growing every year.

Anushka, what are your recollections of the festival?
There were a lot of people who celebrated Ganesh Utsav in the army colony where I stayed. It was also a huge event in Bengaluru where I spent a major part of life. I’ve visited my friends’ houses to see the idol and play the Manjira (during the aarti). My mom’s best friend is a Maharashtrian. We would go to her house for the festival. It’s a day of celebration where family and friends come together.