Lucknow: Water conservation activist Shipra Pathak on Wednesday said the traditional Jyeshtha Bada Mangal ‘bhandara’ (community feast) tradition has evolved into a powerful example of social harmony, environmental consciousness and community-driven governance.Highlighting its environmental focus, with the concept of ‘green bhandara’ implemented widely, Pathak said 8 lakh eco-friendly bowls, 4 lakh leaf plates and 1 lakh wooden spoons were used, while over 1 lakh saplings were distributed. More than 550 ‘bhandaras’ were completely plastic- and thermocol-free, and utensil banks were set up at several locations to promote reusable steel dishes.At a press meet organised by Mangalmaan Sanstha at Vishva Samvad Kendra, RSS Awadh prant special outreach in charge Prashant Bhatia said more than 15,000 bhandaras were held across eight Tuesdays across the city, serving over three crore devotees.He said the initiative went beyond religious rituals to become a large-scale demonstration of social service, discipline and collective effort. The turnover of the event was estimated at over Rs 150 crore, generating around 1.5 lakh human workdays and providing employment to local vendors, including halwais, tent operators, transport workers and daily wage labourers.Speakers also underscored the strong social integration witnessed during the celebrations, with people from all backgrounds lining up to share a meal. The initiative saw participation of over 700 volunteers and multiple organisations, alongside civic support from local authorities.Bhatia said efforts are underway to further modernise bhandaras and develop it into a global model combining tradition with sustainability and efficient management. To oversee the entire campaign, joint general secretary, RSS, Krishna Gopal, prant prachark Kaushal, national convener of the environment conservation, Gopal Arya visited several bhandaras in the city.
