How to Respectfully Dispose of Old or Broken Idols and Puja Items

Sooner or later, many families have an idol that is chipped, a photo that is faded, or an old piece they have replaced. It does not feel right to put them in the bin. Here are the ways people commonly handle it, though traditions vary.

Ask first

Check with your elders or a priest, as some families and communities have a specific custom. What follows is a general guide.

Metal idols

Brass and other metal idols can often be repaired. If they cannot, many families donate them to a temple, which may accept them, or hand them to a priest. Some melt them down through a craftsperson for a new item, which is a respectful kind of renewal.

Clay idols

Clay and plaster idols are traditionally immersed in flowing water, such as a river or a pond. Because of environmental concerns, many places now have designated immersion tanks. Follow your local guidelines, and avoid polluting natural water.

Photos and paper

Old photos and framed images can be placed under a tree, or left at a temple or a designated collection point. Take them out of the glass and frame first.

Flowers and garlands

Do not throw them in the dustbin. Compost them, or place them at the base of a tree. Many places now collect temple flowers for composting or for making incense.

Other puja items

Cotton wicks, ash and incense ash can be placed in a plant pot or buried in the garden.

When replacing an idol

Say a short prayer of thanks before parting with it, and then place the new one with respect. A simple gesture of gratitude is what matters.