Inspirational Desk, Delhi Magazine — In a remarkable push for environmental sustainability, the Hindu organisation Sanskriti Bachao Manch has appealed to the Muslim community across India to consider using symbolic goats made of clay for Eid al-Adha (Bakri Eid) sacrifices instead of the traditional slaughtering of live animals.
The organisation, which has been promoting eco-friendly festival practices for several years, has sent formal letters to prominent Muslim religious leaders urging them to adopt more sustainable rituals during Bakri Eid. The clay goats, priced at ₹1,000 each, are intended as a symbolic alternative that respects religious sentiments while significantly reducing the environmental impact.
Chandrashekhar Tiwari, convener of Sanskriti Bachao Manch, explained the motivation behind the initiative:
“We have been encouraging eco-friendly practices during Hindu festivals such as Holi, Diwali, and Ganesh Chaturthi for years. If these festivals can be celebrated without harming the environment or animals, then Eid al-Adha should also embrace such responsible practices.”
He further highlighted the detrimental effects of traditional animal sacrifice, including excessive water usage, pollution from animal remains, and the ethical concerns related to animal cruelty. Tiwari stressed, “Protecting the environment is a collective responsibility. Our traditions must evolve to ensure we leave a healthier planet for future generations.”
The organisation’s efforts include innovations such as using cow dung cakes for Holika Dahan and promoting the immersion of clay idols in garden soil instead of water bodies to prevent pollution, reflecting their broader commitment to eco-friendly celebrations.
The proposal, however, has met with resistance within sections of the Muslim community. Syed Kaab Rashidi, legal advisor of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, expressed his reservations:
“While environmental concerns are valid, this kind of initiative often emerges only before Islamic festivals. There is a need to address larger issues such as meat exports and the leather industry, which also impact animals and the environment.”
He emphasized that religious traditions carry deep cultural significance and any change requires thoughtful dialogue within the community. Rashidi added, “Constructive conversations and cooperation are key if we are to balance faith and environmental responsibility.”
Despite divergent views, Sanskriti Bachao Manch remains firm in its mission to foster interfaith collaboration for the environment. The organisation believes that symbolic gestures like using clay goats can open pathways for greater awareness and gradual change in ritual practices, benefiting both faith and planet.
