Ganesh Kendale
NEW DELHI: A photo of IIT Bombay professor Chetan Singh Solanki, sitting in a luxury hotel but wearing torn socks in New Delhi, has gone viral on social media, sparking a widespread conversation about sustainability and resource efficiency. Known as the “Solar Man of India” or “Solar Gandhi,” Solanki has responded to the viral attention, explaining the deeper significance behind his seemingly modest wardrobe choice.
The picture, taken during a quiet moment before his speech at the Economic Times Energy Leadership Summit on 25th September, captured Solanki at the Hyatt in Delhi.Addressing the viral post, Solanki acknowledged his torn socks, saying, “Yes, my torn socks were exposed! I need to replace them, I will and sure, I can afford to – but nature cannot. In nature, everything is finite.”
Solanki, a faculty member at IIT Bombay for over two decades, is well-known for his work in promoting solar energy and advocating for environmental sustainability. In his social media post, he explained that his decision to continue wearing the torn socks was a conscious effort to reduce waste and use resources more efficiently. “I may use the best gadgets to enhance my productivity, but I strive to use the least amount of material to reduce my carbon footprint,” Solanki wrote, emphasising his commitment to minimizing environmental impact.
His efforts to promote sustainability go far beyond wardrobe choices. Solanki has travelled more than 43,000 kilometers across 20 states in India to raise awareness about solar energy and the need for environmental conservation. He compared his mission to that of a businessman seeking to maximize profits, saying, “Just as businessmen want to increase their profit on every investment, I as a ‘social worker’ want to maximize the impact of my time.”
The professor’s remarks quickly resonated with social media users, with many praising his dedication to sustainability. One user humorously commented, “Thanks, Chetan Singh Solanki, your example has given me the courage to come out of the closet as a fellow torn socks wearer! This is really reducing the carbon footprint!”
Solanki’s post, accompanied by hashtags supporting sustainability, climate action, and minimalism, has further amplified his message of environmental responsibility. His work and personal choices continue to inspire others to rethink their consumption habits, making him a notable voice in India’s efforts towards sustainability.
