As the bell chimes loudly at the Shiv Temple in Versova, an elderly woman hobbles towards the temple’s gates, briefly stopping by the flower vendor, who nods at her amiably and hands her a small packet. She opens it, takes the fresh red flowers, and braids it onto the little girl’s head, who has accompanied her thus far. They say their prayers, ring the resounding bell, and then walk to the left, into a quieter corner—straight to the Community Fridge. She opens it, takes an apple and a banana, and they’re off. That’s all there is to it, really. No frills, no fuss. The Versova Welfare Association aimed to do exactly this, when they installed the Community Fridge outside the temple. “We were inspired by a hotel in Kerala that kept a fridge outside, stocked with food that was normally leftover. We immediately decided to do the same, maintaining the fact that the needy needn’t beg anymore. If they truly need food, they can have some without begging,” said Dr. Kshitij Mehta, secretary of the Versova Welfare Association.

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