Forget clay lamps, Chandigarh Gaushala lights up Diwali with free cow-dung diyas; Watch Video
Prabhjot Sidhu
Chandigarh, November 7, 2026: In an initiative combining traditional practices with environmental awareness, the Gauri Shankar Sewa Dal Gaushala in Sector 45, Chandigarh, is preparing cow-dung diyas for Diwali and distributing them free of cost to people to encourage an eco-friendly celebration of the festival.
Unlike conventional earthen lamps, the diyas prepared at the gaushala are made from cow dung and blended with various natural materials, including havan samagri, guggal, loban, turmeric, mustard seeds and dried flower petals offered at temples.
The initiative also provides an opportunity for children and other volunteers to participate in making the diyas. People visiting the gaushala can learn the process and contribute to their preparation.
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Speaking about the initiative, Vinod, Vice-President of Gauri Shankar Sewa Dal Gaushala, said the objective was not only to promote traditional practices but also to make productive use of cow dung, which is often underutilised.
He said the diyas were designed to be organic and zero-waste. Once lit and completely burnt, the residue can be collected and used as manure for plants and pots, reducing waste.
Vinod said the initiative could also develop into a source of livelihood, particularly for children and others willing to learn the craft. He pointed out that cow-dung diyas are available on online marketplaces, with some selling for around Rs 10-15 per piece, offering an opportunity for small-scale production and income generation.
Explaining the preparation process, he said the gaushala had gradually developed the idea by experimenting with different materials and designs. The initiative initially began with simple containers and was later improved by incorporating traditional ingredients and dried flowers to give the diyas a distinct fragrance when lit.
He added that the use of natural ingredients was intended to make the lamps different from conventional decorative products that may contain chemical-based materials.
The gaushala has also invited residents to visit and participate in the activity. Its decision to distribute the diyas free of cost is aimed at ensuring that more families can use them to illuminate their homes during Diwali.
Through the initiative, the gaushala hopes to promote the reuse of natural resources, encourage community participation and revive traditional practices while adding an environmentally conscious dimension to Diwali celebrations.