Report on Punaravartan: Mati Daan Initiative for Ganapati Immersion Initiative: Punaravartan (Mati Daan for Ganapati Immersion) Organised by: Rotary Club of Chinchwad-Pune in collaboration with Abhivyapti Foundation Duration: 8th September 2024 to 20th September 2024 Avenue: Environment Donation Centres: Kids World, Sridharnagar, Chinchwad DIC's English Medium School, Nigdi Pradhikaran Participants: Approximately 450 families In a commendable effort to blend tradition with environmental responsibility, the Rotary Club of Chinchwad-Pune, in collaboration with Abhivyapti Foundation, launched the Punaravartan initiative, also known as Mati Daan, for Ganapati immersion. Running from 8th to 20th September 2024, this innovative program aimed to preserve the sanctity of the Ganapati idols while promoting environmental awareness and combating water pollution. Overview of the Initiative: The Punaravartan initiative encouraged families to donate the soil from the Ganapati idols immersed at home. By doing so, participants contributed to environmental conservation and demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices during the festive season. The donated clay was collected at two designated centres: Kids World in Sridharnagar and DIC's English Medium School in Nigdi Pradhikaran. Key Objectives: Preservation of Sanctity: The initiative sought to maintain the sanctity of the Ganapati idols by encouraging a respectful disposal method that aligns with environmental values. Environmental Protection: By promoting the donation of clay, the initiative aimed to mitigate the harmful effects of idol immersion on water bodies, thereby addressing the issue of water pollution. Community Engagement: The program fostered a sense of community involvement, bringing together around 450 families who participated in the soil donation process. Impact and Engagement: The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive, with approximately 450 families participating in the initiative. The collective effort not only highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship but also reinforced community ties and cultural values. Participants expressed satisfaction in contributing to a cause that honors tradition while protecting the environment. The donated clay was handed over to local sculptors for recycling, promoting a circular economy and sustainable practices within the community. Conclusion: The Punaravartan initiative by the Rotary Club of Chinchwad-Pune and Abhivyapti Foundation was a significant step toward promoting environmental awareness during the Ganapati festival. By encouraging the responsible disposal of idol materials, the initiative contributed to protecting local water bodies and fostering a culture of sustainability. Acknowledgements: The Rotary Club of Chinchwad-Pune extends heartfelt thanks to Abhivyapti Foundation for their collaboration, and to all the families who participated in this initiative. Special appreciation goes to the volunteers who helped facilitate the collection and recycling processes. This initiative exemplifies the Rotary Club's commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement, setting a precedent for future sustainable practices during cultural celebrations.