HYDERABAD: In a world where lavish feasts often end in overflowing garbage bins while many go to bed hungry, the paradox of food wastage continues to haunt urban India. Addressing this silent crisis is not just a matter of policy, but of compassion in action. Bridging this gap at the grassroots level is Bhargav Ventrapragada, founder of Helping Spot Organisation, whose initiative has made a quiet yet significant impact across the Telugu states.
Bhargav’s journey into social service began in 2015, when he left a stable job as an IT officer to work on issues he saw around him. He recalls a turning point — finding an abandoned infant in critical condition. The incident pushed him to visit slums and understand deeper issues such as poverty, lack of awareness and limited access to basic services. The idea was simple: use leftover food from weddings and functions to feed those in need. Today, Helping Spot runs a network of volunteers who collect surplus food and distribute it free of cost. The organisation says it has redistributed over 320 tonnes of food so far, serving nearly 15 lakh meals.
“The organization currently collects nearly two tonnes of excess food every month.We realised large quantities of edible food were being wasted after events while many people remained hungry,” Bhargav tells TNIE.
It now uses dedicated vehicles to improve efficiency. Beyond food, the NGO also works in education, healthcare and hygiene. It supports the education of 34 children, has helped over 38 families with medical needs, and conducts health camps. Awareness drives on menstrual hygiene and distribution of reusable sanitary products are also carried out in low-income neighbourhoods.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the organisation distributed over 54,000 meal packs. It also helped more than 15,000 people during the Vijayawada floods with food and essentials.