SIGDI: Reviving Tradition for Urban Sustainability.

Traditional cooking stoves serve an important role in households around the world, giving sustenance and cultural importance to communities with varied socioeconomic backgrounds. Among these, the SIGDI, a traditional Indian cooking stove, represents culinary history, simplicity, and efficiency. However, as urbanization accelerates and environmental concerns grow, there is an urgent need to rethink and alter conventional cooking processes to line with modern sustainability aims. In response, this study investigates the resuscitation and augmentation of the SIGDI using novel materials and manufacturing procedures. Using stainless steel and the deep drawing technique, they move away from traditional fabrication processes and toward a more efficient and scalable manufacturing strategy. The use of stainless steel, which is known for its durability and heat resistance, promises to extend the SIGDI’s life and performance while meeting the different cooking needs of both rural and urban areas. Furthermore, our examination of the SIGDI’s adaptability as a cooking stove and fireplace highlights its ability to reconcile traditional and modern lifestyles. This study aims to contribute to the ongoing discussion about sustainable cooking practices by combining materials science, manufacturing engineering, and cultural anthropology, fostering a deeper appreciation for traditional wisdom while also embracing the possibilities of contemporary innovation. Finally, by resurrecting classic cooking stoves like the SIGDI, they hope to pave the road for a more sustainable, resilient, and culturally rich culinary scene in the twenty-first century.