Thane Group Employs Specially-Abled Youth to Make Eco-Friendly Makhar
Thane-based Heramb Art has introduced a sustainable festive decor initiative ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, employing hearing and speech-impaired youth to handcraft eco-friendly makhar (deity frames) from natural materials. The initiative aims to curb the influx of thermocol and plastic waste that typically accompanies the festival season while providing steady livelihoods to specially-abled individuals.
As preparations for Ganesh Chaturthi gather momentum across Maharashtra, traditional demand for elaborate festive backdrops often leads to an influx of non-biodegradable waste. To counter the long-term ecological damage caused by discarded thermocol and plastic items, Heramb Art has chosen an alternative manufacturing model rooted in environmental sustainability.
The team creates decorative setups exclusively using natural and upcycled components. By working with materials such as bamboo, wooden slats, cardboard, decorative lace, and vibrant tassels, the young artisans produce a wide variety of festive decor. The collection features mini devharas (shrines), handcrafted temples, intricate thrones, swings, and dedicated Gauri-Ganpati frames.
Beyond reducing reliance on plastics, the project places a strong emphasis on social inclusion and economic empowerment. Heramb Art guides hearing and speech-impaired youth through the entire production process, providing them with a platform to showcase their creative skills and earn a dignified livelihood.
Kailas Desale, founder of Heramb Art, highlighted the motivation behind the initiative, noting that temporary festival decorations generate tonnes of toxic garbage every year. He stated that the venture seeks to prove that festive devotion does not need to come at the cost of ecological harm, combining environmental protection with reliable financial independence for the specially-abled team.
The initiative comes at a time when civic authorities are actively urging citizens to minimise single-use waste during public and domestic celebrations. With eco-friendly alternatives gaining greater acceptance among devotees, the Thane workshop demonstrates how festive traditions can adapt to protect local ecosystems while empowering marginalised communities through skilled craft.
