Hinduism, the world’s oldest religion, has a unique style of presenting spirituality via its Vedic ceremonies, which include:

• Yagna 
• Havan
• Puja

Many puja elements are utilised to worship gods and carry out various Vedic rites that are regarded fortunate (sattvik) according to the Vedas. Hinduism is known as Dharma (a way of life) because it teaches its followers to pursue inward blissfulness rather than outward satisfaction to live and enjoy life to the fullest.

Puja’s Importance and Its Elements

Hindus undertake puja as well as other traditions to honour gods and goddesses following the Vedas. Vedic writings are important for spiritual practice and also Vedic science. Hindus employ a variety of satvik puja materials to honour the deity, including floral, garlands (mala), Deepak, Kalash (kalasam), yantra (yantralu), god statues, kumkum, Chandan (sandalwood), and several other items. Everything utilised in puja has a religious and scientific meaning according to Vedic science.

• Pushpanjali: Flower’s Importance in Puja

According to pre – Vedic teachings, Pushpanjali (Flower Offering) is an important aspect of puja. Flowers attract divine energies because of their innate beauty, colour, and aroma. Flowers can also serve to create a nice atmosphere around the location where god’s major part (placement) is achieved. With its colour and natural smell, it produces a beautiful aura and surrounds the area with happiness. In puja, garlands (Phool mala) are often used to symbolise love and respect for the Creator. Flowers also bring tranquilly to the psyche, which aids in the full dedication of heart and mind to the deity.

• Diya: The Importance of Spiritual Wisdom

During the god’s puja, a Diya (light), also called Deepak, is a very important ceremony. Diya (light) is a metaphor for wisdom and insight. With wisdom and insight, one can comprehend life as well as the key considerations of the brain and spiritual existence. Since it produces Latvia (positive and clean) in the environment, Diya is lit in front of the god. When we destroy our ego (wick in a candle) and cravings or asanas (oil or ghee), we ignite the spiritual understanding within us, which is symbolised by the illumination of Diya.

• Kalash is a symbol of wisdom, wealth, and longevity.

The spiritual and Veda philosophy behind the use of Kalash or kalasam is particularly significant in puja ceremonies. Lord Vishnu emerged with the Kalash loaded with Nectar during the stirring of the ocean, as per the Vedas. As a result, it is thought that all of the gods live in Kalash because they have all ingested Nectar from Kalash. As a result, it might be considered a symbol of wisdom and wealth in life. Kalash is also regarded as a goddess or mother nature, and water is regarded as a life source that nourishes and supports life. Kalash also represents the universe’s panchtatva (five components). As per Vedic literature, Kalash is exceedingly fortunate and satvik. Copper Kalash has a favourable resonance, as well as the ability to cleanse water and, according to Vedic research, the ability to eradicate the tamas and rajas gunas.

• Gods’ residence: Leaves

The elements of Hinduism’s puja and praying have a strong link with the environment. In puja rituals, banana leaves, mango leaves and branches, and coconut plant leaves are commonly used. The banana tree is thought to be Brihaspati (Jupiter). Because it is claimed that Lord Vishnu lives in a banana plant, it is considered a sacred tree, and its leaves are offered to Goddess Lakshmi and God Ganesha. Mango leaves are arranged in a Kalash with a coconut during puja. The arms of God are represented by mango leaves, and the skull of the god is represented by coconut. Since mango is Lord Ganesha’s and Lord Murugan’s favourite fruit, mango branches are utilised as offerings. Mango leaves are utilized to provide free-flowing oxygen and absorb co2 from the atmosphere during large crowds. Coconut is a popular fruit for puja and devotion since it represents wealth and power. Offering it during rituals is particularly recommended and meaningful.

• Tilak: Allow the Energy to Flow

In Hinduism, a tilak on the head is very important. Kumkum, Chandan, or vibhuti tilaks are put between the eyebrows on the top of the head. It has both spiritual and physical advantages. It is placed between the eyebrows, wherein our body’s Agna chakras are located. Gurusthan is another name for it. The use of Kumkum, Chandan, or Vibhuti tilak boosts good energy and ideas. It also serves as a positive power absorber and aids in the regulation of energy transfer. It aids in the alleviation of headaches and colds. When rubbed to the forehead, it also provides cooling and relaxation.

Elements and puja objects utilised in worshipping God and performing puja are minor considerations. They are significant both in respect of spirituality and in respect of the science underpinning their use. Puja is an important part of Hinduism, and it must be performed with total dedication and attention, using genuine and purified puja components.