Vishwakarma University in Pune embraced the spirit of Rakshabandhan in a unique and environmentally conscious way. On Monday, students and staff came together to celebrate the festival by tying rakhis to trees on campus, an initiative aptly named ‘Vrukshabandhan.’ This symbolic gesture represented their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable practices.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Siddharth Jabade, highlighted the significance of the event, stating that tying rakhis to trees symbolized their dedication to protecting the flora and fauna of the university. The eco-friendly rakhis, meticulously crafted by the environment and nature committee members of the university, added a special touch to the celebration.
The university’s statement emphasized the urgent need to address climate change, recognizing the profound challenges it poses for humanity. As a proactive institution, Vishwakarma University has initiated various initiatives to tackle climate change, and ‘Vrukshabandhan’ stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
Vaibhav Thakare, director of the student welfare association and organizer of the event, shared insights into the initiative’s underlying message. He emphasized that the handmade rakhis, crafted using waste and leftover decorative materials, reflected the university’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices. This creative approach served as a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible resource utilization.
Thakare further stressed that the event aimed to raise awareness among students about sustainable development goals. Through ‘Vrukshabandhan,’ the university sought to inspire students to take concrete actions in preserving the environment and promoting sustainability.
Clifford Gumireshe, a second-year student from the Department of Travel and Tourism and a participant in the pledge-writing activity, underscored the transborder nature of climate change. He emphasized the need for global unity in protecting the planet, drawing upon the Indian tradition of love and care for nature as a source of inspiration.
‘Vrukshabandhan’ at Vishwakarma University served as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness between human well-being and environmental sustainability. By embracing the spirit of Rakshabandhan in this unique way, the university showcased its commitment to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among its students, inspiring them to become champions of a greener future.
