Indian College Principal Covers Classroom with 'Gobbar' for Research Purpose

In a surprising and unconventional move, Pratyush Vatsala, the principal of Delhi University’s Lakshmibai College, applied cow dung to the walls of one of the classrooms, stating that it was part of a traditional technique meant to reduce heat during the scorching summer months. This age-old practice, commonly seen in rural parts of India, is believed to have multiple benefits—such as naturally cooling spaces, repelling insects, and offering antibacterial effects. However, this unexpected step has sparked a wave of mixed reactions within the college community and beyond. While some have applauded the initiative as an eco-friendly, sustainable approach rooted in indigenous knowledge, others have criticized it for being impractical and unsuitable for a modern educational institution.

According to Principal Vatsala, the use of cow dung in the classroom was not a random decision but part of a broader research initiative by the college’s faculty. The idea was to explore and test sustainable, traditional methods in a modern context. Despite these intentions, many students and teachers have voiced concerns. They argue that the primary issue—the absence of basic cooling systems like ceiling fans, proper ventilation, or coolers—remains unaddressed. Some students mentioned that although classroom conditions can become unbearably hot during summer, no one had requested the use of cow dung as a solution.

Experts also shared their thoughts on the matter. While acknowledging that cow dung might provide minimal cooling and hygienic benefits, they stressed that it is unlikely to have any significant impact on concrete structures typically found in urban campuses. In their view, addressing heat problems in such settings requires practical upgrades in infrastructure, such as installing fans or cooling systems, rather than symbolic gestures rooted in traditional customs. They emphasized that while integrating cultural knowledge can be valuable, it should not come at the cost of modern functionality and student comfort.