TOH edition: Saturday, 19 September 2026 · Planet & Nature
Sacred Flowers No Longer Have to Choke India’s Rivers to Be Treated With Respect
Reported by The Better India
Publisher date:
Millions of tons of floral offerings across India have long been placed into rivers because spiritual tradition forbids discarding sacred items into ordinary trash. A growing network of green startups is now collecting these discarded marigolds, roses, and jasmine directly from temples to craft clean incense and biodegradable packaging. The closed-loop solution protects fragile waterways while ensuring that offerings made in faith are given a dignified, sustainable second life.
Proving that sacred traditions and ecological stewardship can work together, this circular approach turns river-choking waste into sustainable goods and dignified local employment.
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