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Through her reel, the woman highlighted how faith-based practices are helping in sustainability and environmental responsibility in New Zealand.
Many users called for similar practices in India. (Photo Credit: Instagram)
A video showcasing how New Zealand balances religious practices with environmental protection has gone viral on social media. The reel was shared by Dolly Prajapati, a New Zealand–based content creator known for documenting her lifestyle and experiences in the island nation.
In the video, Prajapati addresses a question that she was often asked by her followers: how people in New Zealand dispose of items used in the worship of gods. She explained that, unlike in India, there are strict regulations in New Zealand that prohibit immersing idols or other puja-related items in rivers, lakes or other water bodies.
According to Prajapati, environmental protection laws in the country are firmly enforced by the authorities. “Puja items such as flowers, leaves and coconuts must be disposed of in designated green waste bins, where they are processed into compost. Alternatively, these biodegradable items can be buried directly in the soil. Ashes from havan rituals should be wrapped in paper and placed in the general compost bin, though small quantities may be spread around plants,” he said.
She further noted that diyas and agarbattis are also not allowed to be discarded in water bodies.
“In New Zealand, people try to use natural items for puja ceremonies. These are mainly biodegradable and help in protecting the environment…,” she noted.
Through her reel, Prajapati highlighted how faith-based practices are helping in sustainability and environmental responsibility in New Zealand. Her message resonated widely with viewers online, with many calling for similar practices in India.
“Difference between People who treat Rivers as God VS People who treat River as River,” a user commented on the viral reel.
“Indians must learn to adopt this in their daily habits,” another said.
Others also echoed similar sentiments, noting that even if the authorities were to put up signs in India, people won’t listen.
“That’s real pooja .. we Indians all communities have heavily polluted water ..we are paying and future generations will pay as well,” a user warned.
Delhi, India, India
January 06, 2026, 08:30 IST
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