Shenaz Treasurywala Calls Out Environmental Pollution In Bold Wake-Up Call
The actress offers a thought-provoking analysis on how daily habits harm the environment!
Jehangir Irroni is a filmmaker and creative director with over 18 years of experience in directing ad films, corporate videos, web series, and television shows. As assistant vice president - Videos at IncNut Digital, Jehangir is involved in producing and directing videos and infomercials.
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In a powerful and unflinching message, actress Shenaz Treasurywala has drawn attention to one of India’s most pressing issues: the paradox of reverence for the sacred Ganga and the simultaneous dumping of three billion litres of sewage into her waters every day. The message taps into the deep contradictions in the way Indians treat Bharat Mata, nurturing a “me first” mindset that undermines national pride. This stark commentary outlines not just the visible trash on railway tracks or in public spaces, but a broader cultural apathy that is poisoning the nation’s natural heritage.
For many, the Ganga is not just a river but a living, sacred symbol of purity and life. Yet, despite centuries of worship and devotion, our practices have led to widespread environmental degradation. Shenaz Treasurywala’s message challenges every citizen to reflect on their day-to-day actions: honking unnecessarily, cutting queues, throwing waste without a second thought, and then expecting someone else to deal with the mess. It is a call to preserve not only the physical environment but the spirit of India itself.
The commentary boldly asks, “Whatever happened to pehle aap and yoga country?” These questions cut to the core of what it means to be responsible citizens. When the rituals of worship are undermined by environmental irresponsibility, it signals a disconnect between our reverence and our actions. The reality is stark: India, home to one of the world’s richest cultural legacies, is also one of the most polluted nations. The statistic of three billion litres of sewage dumped daily is not just an environmental crisis—it is a moral one.
This isn’t solely about visible litter. It is a socio-environmental commentary that points out how everyday practices, driven by self-interest, erode the communal fabric. The reference to treating Bharat Mata like a dustbin is particularly jarring. The environmental degradation is not presented as an accident or an unfortunate byproduct of urbanization; it is the result of a systemic disregard for our natural resources and the legacy of our cultural identity.
Other Approaches In Environmental Action
Recent social media posts echo these concerns with similar vigor. For instance, one Instagram post draws an international comparison: while Paris is transforming its urban landscape to become a 15-minute city by limiting car usage and removing parking spots to create green zones, many Indian cities are witnessing the opposite trend—forests and trees being sacrificed for highways and malls. This comparison underscores the urgency for India not to lag behind in its quest for sustainable development.
In yet another incident, the passionate protests by students from Hyderabad University have gained attention. They fought against the demolition of 400 acres of forest—a habitat for peacocks, deer, and other wildlife—in the name of building IT parks. Their outcry and subsequent attention from the highest judiciary highlight that amidst the chaos, there are voices demanding accountability and sustainable progress.
Innovative Examples And Global Comparisons
While much of India struggles with environmental degradation, certain regions offer examples of more responsible development. Sikkim, for example, stands out as a beacon of eco-friendly policies. The state has banned plastic bags since 1998, achieved 100% organic status by 2016, and even earned the UN’s Future Policy Gold Award in 2018. Unlike the rampant “me first” attitudes seen in many parts of the country, Sikkim’s model demonstrates that thoughtful policies can lead to cleaner soil, air, and water. It is a testament to the fact that sustainable development is not only possible but also beneficial in the long run.
Globally, cities like Paris are leading transformative changes that prioritize people over pollution. The emphasis on creating car-free zones, expanding green spaces, and ensuring that every resident’s essentials are within a short walk or bike ride suggest that environmental sustainability can go hand in hand with modern urban living. In stark contrast, India’s approach, as highlighted in these social media commentaries, often involves clearing out nature for the sake of unbridled development—a choice that will have long-term impacts on both people and the planet.
The Cultural Disconnect And Its Consequences
Shenaz Treasurywala’s call for a more responsible mindset comes at a critical juncture. The message is clear: if we truly love our country and our natural heritage, it is time to act. This involves more than just superficial cleanliness or periodic environmental campaigns—it requires a shift in everyday behavior. Citizens must move away from the “me first” mentality and embrace practices that respect and protect the environment.
The trash on the tracks, the constant honking, and the casual disposal of waste are symptomatic of a larger disregard for communal well-being. By drawing a direct connection between these actions and the health of the nation’s rivers and green spaces, the message lays bare the cost of inaction, both environmentally and culturally.
In essence, the environmental challenges facing India are deeply intertwined with attitudes and behaviors that have become all too normalized. Shenaz Treasurywala’s message is a powerful reminder that responsible actions must back reverence for nature. With examples from global cities and success stories like Sikkim showing the way, there is hope for a renewed India—one that sees its natural beauty not as an afterthought, but as the very foundation of its cultural identity. The call to action is unequivocal: it is time for every citizen to step up and ensure that our cherished Bharat Mata is treated with the respect she deserves.
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