Gokarna, September 15, 2026: Journey towards a plastic-free lifestyle must begin with individuals and their own homes, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji, Sri Ramachandrapura Math, has said.
“Although modern science says plastic is harmful, it has surrounded us everywhere. We need the courage to swim against the tide. Change should not begin in someone else’s home, but in our own homes and with ourselves,” he said.
Swamiji was delivering a discourse under the ‘Annam Brahma’ series at a religious assembly held as part of the Annabrahma Chaturmasya programme at the Ashoka premises of the Math’s Gokarna headquarters on September 15.
‘Traditional Utensils Have Been Pushed Aside’
Swamiji said one of the characteristics of the present age was the tendency to damage something beneficial and replace it with something harmful. “Although science acknowledges that plastic and artificial materials can be highly harmful, their production and use have not stopped,” he said.
He observed that traditional copper, brass and bronze vessels, once commonly used in households, have now been pushed aside and remain unused. “Even one or two generations ago, despite financial difficulties, people used appropriate metal vessels,” he said, stressing the importance of reviving traditional practices.
Observations on Earthen Vessels
Referring to the use of earthen vessels, the Swamiji said the Dharmashastra did not prescribe them for use in every circumstance. However, he explained that a closer understanding of the traditional guidance suggests that an earthen vessel that has been used for holding food after eating should not be reused, while there is no objection to using an earthen vessel that has not been used in such a manner.
Natural Ganesha Worship Marks Ganesh Chaturthi
As part of the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, Sri Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji worshipped a specially prepared Ganesha idol made from clay and natural colours at the Sri Ramachandrapura Math.
Following the Math’s traditional worship practices, the Swamiji performed the puja and offered special prayers for the welfare of the world. Shyamasurya Bhat and his family offered gurubhiksha seva. Subrahmanya Seeraje and his wife attended as dinapradhanis.
Keywords: Raghaveshwara Bharati Swamiji, plastic-free lifestyle, traditional copper brass bronze utensils, natural Ganesha idol, Ganesh Chaturthi Gokarna, Sri Ramachandrapura Math