In most Indian households, one invariably finds calendars used for worship or pictures of deities. However, when these pictures and religious calendars deteriorate, many people—knowingly or unknowingly—discard them haphazardly; this is considered improper from both Vastu and religious perspectives.

This often raises a question in people's minds: what is the correct way to dispose of religious books, calendars, or pictures?

Pictures of deities, religious calendars, or images of gods and goddesses displayed on walls or in prayer areas tend to deteriorate over time; prolonged storage can lead to issues like dampness or termite infestation.

Consequently, people often leave these old pictures or religious items near temples, Peepal trees, or water bodies. While this method of disposal might seem practical to many, it is considered incorrect from a religious standpoint. Leaving pictures of deities or items associated with worship under trees is neither sanctioned by scriptures nor environmentally friendly.

What is the correct method of disposal?
In Sanatan Dharma, the 'Panch Tattva' (five elements) hold great significance, with fire and water, in particular, regarded as purifying agents. Therefore, old pictures should be disposed of in two ways. First, items that are biodegradable—such as paper pictures—should be immersed in a water body. If a picture is framed, it should be removed from the frame before being immersed in flowing water.

Conversely, non-biodegradable items—such as pictures made of wood or cloth—should be consigned to fire. After the ritual burning, the ashes can either be immersed in water or buried beneath a tree. Hindu scriptures consider the disposal of religious items through fire to be appropriate. This same method should be followed if pictures of ancestors become damaged for any reason.

We must ensure that the disposal of any image or material related to deities, ancestors, or religion is carried out with deep reverence and in accordance with both scriptural guidelines and environmental considerations.

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