Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with great fervor across India and beyond. It’s a time of joy, family gatherings, and honoring traditions, with the Diwali Puja being the highlight of the celebration. This year, as Diwali 2024 approaches, let’s explore some essential dos and don’ts for performing Diwali Puja to ensure a prosperous, joyful, and peaceful celebration.
Why Perform Diwali Puja?
Diwali is traditionally associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. The Diwali Puja is believed to bring abundance and peace, marking the triumph of light over darkness. Following some essential guidelines while conducting the puja is thought to increase the blessings from the divine.
Dos for Diwali Puja
Choose an Auspicious Time (Shubh Muhurat):
Performing the Diwali Puja during an auspicious time, or shubh muhurat, is highly recommended. For Diwali 2024, consult a trusted panchang (Hindu calendar) to find the most favorable time for the Puja.
Clean and Purify the House:
Cleanliness is considered crucial for Diwali. Ensure that your home is thoroughly cleaned and organized before the puja to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, as it symbolizes purity and respect.
Prepare a Puja Altar:
Set up a sacred space or altar, typically in the northeast or east direction of your home. Decorate the altar with fresh flowers, rangoli designs, and set idols or pictures of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.
Use Pure Items:
Make sure to use pure items for the Puja. Items such as cow’s milk, honey, ghee, kumkum, and rice grains are ideal for traditional rituals. Place a silver or brass vessel to offer water and use fresh flowers and garlands.
Dress Appropriately:
Wear clean and traditional attire while performing the puja. This is a way to show respect and reverence. Generally, wearing new clothes is considered auspicious, symbolizing a fresh start.
Light Diyas and Lamps:
Lighting diyas (oil lamps) is a vital part of Diwali. Place diyas in the altar, around the house, and at entrances to welcome positivity. The lamp light represents the victory of knowledge and goodness.
Chant Mantras and Bhajans:
Recite mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, or play recorded bhajans. This spiritual practice adds positive vibrations, creating a peaceful and divine atmosphere in the home.
Don’ts for Diwali Puja
Avoid Alcohol and Non-Vegetarian Food:
Diwali Puja calls for sattvic (pure) foods. Avoid consuming non-vegetarian foods or alcohol on the day of the puja, as these are considered inauspicious and can negate the positive effects of the ritual.
Do Not Use Torn or Damaged Puja Items:
Avoid using any torn or damaged items such as cloths, paper, or broken idols. Such items are considered disrespectful in the rituals. Always use fresh, clean, and whole items to honor the deities.
Avoid Overindulgence in Sweets and Snacks:
While sweets are integral to Diwali, avoid excessive indulgence. Share sweets with others and offer them first to the deities as a sign of gratitude.
Avoid Inauspicious Thoughts and Speech:
Diwali is a festival of positivity. Try to maintain a peaceful and happy mindset, refraining from anger or negativity. Negative thoughts and words are said to drive away positive energy.
Do Not Perform Puja After Sunset:
While Diwali puja is typically performed in the evening, it’s best to follow the shubh muhurat and avoid performing the puja too late at night. Performing it at the right time is believed to attract more blessings.
Avoid Placing Diyas Directly on the Floor:
Place diyas on a small plate or a decorated holder rather than directly on the floor, especially in the Puja room. This signifies respect and honor towards the light of divinity.
Avoid Disrespecting Symbols of Wealth:
Diwali is about honoring wealth and prosperity. Avoid any actions that could symbolize disrespect towards wealth, like tearing currency notes, keeping the space untidy, or wasting food.
Additional Tips for a Safe and Joyful Diwali
While the spiritual aspect of Diwali is essential, ensure safety is also a priority. Here are some extra precautions to keep in mind:
Handle Diyas and Candles Safely: Place lamps and candles in secure spots to avoid accidents, especially around children.
Opt for Eco-friendly Crackers or Limit Their Use: To reduce pollution, either limit the use of crackers or switch to eco-friendly alternatives.
Keep the Environment in Mind: Decorate with natural materials for rangolis and choose minimal plastic decorations.
(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)