UDAIPUR (Udaipur Kiran): Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has appreciated the Gokasht campaign being run by the Rahda Foundation and suggested that the initiative be expanded on a larger scale. The foundation has now launched a new effort to encourage tribal women to locally produce natural garlands made from cow dung for use during Holika Dahan ahead of Holi, providing them with employment opportunities.
The appreciation came during a programme organised by the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board in Jaipur, where Rahda Foundation set up a stall showcasing environmental conservation through Gokasht. While visiting the stall, the Chief Minister observed the Gokasht products and praised the initiative led by the foundation’s founder, Archana Singh Charan. He said the campaign could prove effective in the direction of environmental protection and advised adopting it in a broader and more innovative manner.
Following the Chief Minister’s suggestion, the foundation has begun facilitating the production of cow dung garlands in tribal areas of the district. These garlands are traditionally offered during Holika Dahan. Archana Singh Charan said this initiative will provide local employment to many women. She described the effort as a strong step towards preserving ancient cultural traditions while also delivering a meaningful message of environmental conservation.
Active participation of local tribal women has been ensured in this work. Women are being trained and made self-reliant, enabling them to earn from home. This is not only strengthening their economic condition but also boosting their self-respect and confidence. She said that “Local for Vocal” is not just a slogan, but a way to respect local resources, skills and labour.
Religious and Cultural Significance of Cow Dung Garlands
Cow dung garlands are considered symbols of purity and sattvic values. In Indian tradition, the cow is regarded as sacred and its dung is considered pure. Offering cow dung garlands before Holika Dahan is a ritual connected with faith, devotion and traditional values, reflecting the continuity of Sanatan culture.
Appeal to Adopt Gau-Kasht on Holi
Rahda Foundation has appealed to citizens, social organisations and villagers to avoid using forest wood for Holika Dahan during the upcoming Holi festival and instead use environment-friendly Gau-Kasht, including natural garlands and materials made from cow dung.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.