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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Helen UnderhillORCiD, Radhika Modi, Beenish Mushtaq, Dr Cat ButtonORCiD
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
Adaptations to ritual practices are occurring in Delhi, including the use of artificial immersion ponds within two Hindu festivals: दुर्गा पूजा (Durga Puja) and छठ पूजा (Chhath Puja). Taalaab (artificial ponds) are now mandated as permanent practice, changing social relations between worshippers, and cultural connections with the River Yamuna, now distanced from rituals where it once had a prominent place. We present interview data from worshippers at annual iterations of both festivals (2021–2023), as well as Puja organizing committee members, documenting their attitudes to and feelings about changing practices. Too great a focus on technical or regulatory aspects of water management can unleash unexpected social consequences, which are enmeshed in broader cultural, religious, and socio-political systems. This paper illustrates complex responses from one geographical and religious context, to argue that understandings of intended (environmental) and unintended (social) consequences, both positive and negative, should be considered within water management strategies.
Author(s): Underhill H, Modi R, Mushtaq B, Biswas R, Singhal S, Button C
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Journal for the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture
Year: 2026
Volume: 20
Issue: 4
Online publication date: 11/06/2026
Acceptance date: 11/06/2026
Date deposited: 19/06/2026
ISSN (print): 1749-4907
ISSN (electronic): 1749-4915
Publisher: Equinox Publishing Ltd
URL: https://doi.org/10.1558/jsrnc.34009
DOI: 10.1558/jsrnc.34009
ePrints DOI: 10.57711/33hx-6556
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