Hyderabad launches first sacred collection drive under GHMC–ISKCON initiative

GHMC, in collaboration with ISKCON, launched Hyderabad’s first sacred collection drive under Project Udvasana. The initiative enables respectful disposal and recycling of devotional items. Around 68 kg of materials were collected, with the next drive scheduled for June 13.

Hyderabad: The GHMC, in partnership with Hare Krishna Golden Temple (ISKCON), organised Hyderabad’s first volunteer-led sacred collection drive under Project Udvasana on Saturday at ISKCON Temple, Banjara Hills.

The pilot marks the first time that a dedicated mechanism has been established in Hyderabad for the respectful collection, handling, and recycling of devotional objects. Many households preserve old deity photographs, damaged frames, worn-out idols, and other sacred materials for years due to the absence of a proper disposal system. In several instances, such items are left near trees, water bodies, religious institutions, or public spaces out of reverence, eventually becoming exposed to weather conditions and entering the municipal waste stream.

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To address this issue, GHMC introduced a structured process that combines traditional rituals, citizen participation, responsible material recovery, and environmentally conscious recycling practices.

Devotees from across the city participated in the drive by bringing old deity photographs, damaged puja frames, worn-out idols, and other sacred items that had completed their worship journey. The collected items were respectfully handled through the traditional Udvasana Puja, followed by systematic segregation, scientific dismantling, and responsible recycling.

A total of 68 kg of divine items were collected, mainly comprising framed photos and idols of deities, from around 100 citizens. Many items were also re-homed based on the interest from citizens

The next Divine Collection Drive under Project Udvasana will be organised at Sri Hanuman Temple, Yousufguda, on June 13. Religious institutions interested in partnering as collection centres are encouraged to participate in the initiative. For partnership enquiries: sustainability.cure@gmail.com