Diwali, the luminescent festival of lights, holds deep spiritual significance for millions. The core of this celebration, especially in many Hindu households, is the Diwali Puja. It’s a ritual where families come together to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for prosperity, happiness, and knowledge. This article will guide you through the detailed Puja Vidhi (ritualistic worship method) and the essential Samagri (materials) needed to ensure an authentic and fulfilling Diwali Puja experience at home.
Diwali Puja Samagri: The Essential Materials
Before we delve into the Puja Vidhi, it’s crucial to ensure you have all the necessary Samagri ready:
| Idols or Images: Of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. |
| A Kalash (Pitcher): Preferably of copper or brass, filled with water. |
| Mango or Betel Leaves: To be placed on top of the Kalash. |
| A Coconut: To place on top of the Kalash, representing abundance. |
| Roli and Rice: For tilak and aarti. |
| Incense Sticks: To purify the environment. |
| Diya (Earthen lamps): Preferably ghee lamps for aarti. |
| Sweets and Fruits: As offerings (Prasad) to the deities. |
| Flowers: Preferably marigolds and lotuses. |
| Panchamrit: A mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and sugar. |
| Red Cloth: For laying down the idols. |
| Ganga Jal (Holy water): For purification. |
| Camphor: For the final aarti. |
| Coins: To represent prosperity. |
| Puja Thali: A tray to keep all the puja items. |
| Bell: To accompany the chants and create a divine ambiance. |
Diwali Puja Vidhi: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your Samagri ready, let’s understand the Vidhi, the methodical process of the puja:
Preparation:
- Begin by cleaning the puja room and the entire house.
- Create a small altar or platform using a table or a raised platform.
- Spread a new cloth, preferably red, on the altar and place the idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on it.
- Prepare a rangoli or kolam design around the puja area using colored powders or flowers.
Purification:
- Light the incense sticks.
- Sprinkle Ganga Jal (holy water) in all rooms, including the puja room, to purify the surroundings.
Invocation of Deities:
- Begin with invoking Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Chant: “Om Ganeshaaya Namah“.
- After invoking Lord Ganesha, invoke Goddess Lakshmi. Start with her ‘Mahalakshmi’ form by chanting: “Om Mahalakshmyai Namah“.
Kalash Sthapana:
- Place the Kalash on the right side of the altar.
- Fill the Kalash with water and place the mango or betel leaves on its mouth.
- Place the coconut atop the Kalash. It’s symbolic of the universe and abundance.
- Now, apply a tilak using roli and rice on the Kalash.
Main Puja:
- Offer flowers to both the deities.
- Apply tilak to the idols using roli and rice.
- Light the diyas and offer it to the deities while chanting mantras.
- Offer incense to the deities.
- Present the sweets and fruits as Prasad.
- Offer panchamrit to the deities for Abhishekam (holy bath), followed by plain water.
- Dress the idols and again offer sandalwood paste, tilak, and flowers.
- Ring the bell, signaling the end of the main puja.
Aarti:
- Sing the traditional Lakshmi and Ganesha aartis.
- Use the lit diya and camphor for the aarti, moving it in a circular motion in front of the deities.
Prasad Distribution:
- After the aarti, distribute the Prasad among family members and guests.
Conclusion
Performing the Diwali Puja with authentic Vidhi and Samagri doesn’t just adhere to traditions but also enriches the overall experience, making the Festival of Lights truly divine and spiritually uplifting. While the steps and materials might seem numerous, the essence of the puja lies in devotion and intent. This year, as you light up your homes, ensure you also illuminate your souls with the divine blessings of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.