Devotion meets sustainability, Jammu’s Nagrota Gaushala sets new benchmark with ‘Zero-Plastic’ Mahashivratri

JAMMU: In a landmark convergence of faith and environmental consciousness, the Gaushala managed by JMC Nagrota celebrated Mahashivratri today by hosting "Zero-Plastic, Zero-Landfill" spiritual gathering. The event successfully transitioned traditional Vedic rituals into a modern model for sustainable public celebrations, centering on the sacred bond between Mahadev and Nandi through a grand Gau Poojan and hawan.

The occasion was graced by Ms. Mandeep Kaur (IAS), Commissioner Secretary to the Government, Housing and Urban Development Department, Jammu and Kashmir, who participated in the festivities alongside the Joint Commissioners, officers, and other officials of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC). Prominent citizens, led by Mrs. Priya Sethi, Former Minister, Jammu and Kashmir, also joined the gathering, which saw a massive turnout of former Lambardars, Sarpanches, and Panches from the area, all coming together to support this wonderful initiative by the JMC.

During the event, Commissioner Secretary Mandeep Kaur took a comprehensive tour of the Gaushala to oversee the facilities and the welfare of the cattle. Addressing the gathering, she requested the public to actively participate in the Gaushala’s mission and urged devotees to donate wholeheartedly to ensure the continued care of the animals. To streamline these efforts, she highlighted that the JMC has created a dedicated special account named the "Gau Shalaya Punya Karaya Account," specifically designed for the welfare and development of the Gaushala. This call to action was met with an enthusiastic response, as many citizens and local representatives donated generously on the spot, demonstrating a deep community commitment to the cause.

The event also addressed the critical crisis of the fatal impact of plastic consumption on stray and sheltered cattle. Under the banner of "Gau Seva, Maha Seva," organizers emphasized that protecting the cow is inseparable from protecting the earth, noting that true devotion to Lord Shiva is incomplete without the stewardship of nature. In a comprehensive effort to maintain a zero-waste environment, single-use plastic bags and containers were strictly prohibited. The community kitchen served hundreds of devotees using 100% biodegradable plates and sustainable alternatives. To further encourage long-term habit changes, the Peace Initiative Trust distributed free cloth bags to the public, providing a sustainable alternative for the community.

The success of the Nagrota Gaushala event proves that large-scale religious functions can be conducted without leaving an ecological footprint. The organizers expressed deep gratitude to the public for their cooperation and their heartful donations, signalling a new era for "Green Pilgrimages" in the region. This collaboration between the JMC, prominent leaders, and the local citizenry sets a high standard for future cultural and spiritual celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir.