Sambalpur: The Punam self-help group (SHG) of Sambalpur has introduced an innovative way to celebrate Holi by transforming temple waste flowers into eco-friendly colours. Trained by the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC), the women-led group produces chemical-free gulal in marigold (orange), yellow and lemon yellow variants.
“We’ve received an overwhelming response at international events,” said Vedbhusan, SMC commissioner. “Our recent showcase in Jaipur, resulted in the sale of 16 kg of colours. We plan to set up stalls in the city to sell locally,” said Vedbhusan.
The manufacturing process involves collecting discarded flowers from various temples, boiling them overnight and mixing them with arrowroot powder before drying and grinding them into fine powder. “While the production cost is higher than synthetic alternatives due to the labour-intensive process, environmentally conscious consumers appreciate the value,” said Abha Mohapatra, SMC project manager.
The group has produced 50 kg of gulal, priced at Rs 40 per packet, available at the Mission Shakti Café inside Samaleswari Temple. Their products were well received at the 3R event in Rajasthan and the Subhadra Shakti Mela in Sambalpur, selling 65 and 30 packets, respectively.
This sustainable initiative not only addresses the issue of temple waste management but also provides employment opportunities for underprivileged women while promoting eco-friendly festival celebrations.