In a massive push for environmental sustainability, 25,000 students from 55 schools in Guntur simultaneously crafted clay Ganesha idols, securing a prestigious spot in the World Book of Records, London.
- Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) entered the World Book of Records, London.
- 25,000 students from 55 schools participated in the 'Green Ganesh' initiative.
- The event aimed to eliminate the use of Plaster-of-Paris (PoP) and chemical dyes in festivities.
The Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) achieved a historic milestone on Friday, September 11, 2026, by securing a place in the World Book of Records, London. Under the ambitious 'Nava Guntur' initiative, a staggering 25,000 students from 55 different schools collaborated to create eco-friendly clay Ganesha idols, blending cultural tradition with environmental consciousness.
The event was centrally coordinated at the NTR Stadium, where several high-ranking officials, including GMC Commissioner K. Mayur Ashok, MLAs Galla Madhavi, Naseer Ahmed, and Boorla Ramanjaneyulu, and APTS Chairman Mannava Mohan Krishna, oversaw the proceedings. The scale of the event was unprecedented, turning the stadium into a hub of creative activism.
Eliaz, the Joint Secretary of the World Book of Records, London, formally announced the record and presented the registration certificate. He highlighted the magnitude of the achievement, noting that the previous record stood at 8,750 participants. Guntur's effort nearly tripled that figure, setting a new global benchmark for simultaneous eco-friendly art creation.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this initiative transcends a simple record-breaking attempt; it is a strategic move in 'Environmental Psychology.' By involving the youth, the GMC is ensuring that the message of sustainability reaches every household. When a child brings a handmade clay idol home, it effectively discourages the purchase of non-biodegradable PoP idols, creating a ripple effect of ecological awareness.
"True sustainability is achieved when traditional celebrations evolve to protect the nature they are meant to honor."
The event also featured artistic displays, including a sand Ganesha idol, a meticulously crafted clay idol, and a themed painting, all designed to inspire the participants. Commissioner Mr. Ashok praised the synergy between educational institutions, the Education Department, and the civic body, emphasizing that this is just the beginning of Guntur's green journey.
Looking ahead, the GMC has pledged to maintain this momentum through continued public participation. Future goals include extensive tree plantation drives and a rigorous enforcement policy against single-use plastics, aiming to transform Guntur into a model for urban sustainability in Andhra Pradesh.
| Metric | Previous Record | Guntur's New Record |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Participants | 8,750 Students | 25,000 Students |
| Material Used | Clay | Eco-friendly Clay |
| Institutional Reach | Limited | 55 Schools (Massive) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What was the primary goal of the 'Green Ganesh' programme?
A: The goal was to educate children about environmental protection and discourage the use of Plaster-of-Paris and chemical colors during festivals.
Q2: Who certified the world record for Guntur?
A: The record was formally certified and announced by Eliaz, the Joint Secretary of the World Book of Records, London.
