Puja is a form of worship in Hinduism that involves offering prayers, devotional hymns, and other ritualistic practices to one or more deities. The word “puja” is derived from the Sanskrit word “पूजा (pūjā)”, which means “to worship.”
Puja is performed to seek the blessings of the Divine and to show gratitude towards the Deities for their grace and blessings. It involves the use of various ritual items, such as flowers, incense, lamps, and food offerings, which are offered to the Deity. The Deity is believed to be present in the form of a sacred image or symbol, such as a statue or a picture.
Puja is performed in various forms and for different purposes, such as for health, wealth, prosperity, peace, and spiritual enlightenment. The ritualistic practices involved in puja are highly symbolic and aim to create a sacred atmosphere and invoke the presence of the divine. The devotee usually performs puja in front of an altar or a sacred space, and the ritual is often accompanied by chanting of mantras, hymns, and prayers.Puja is an integral part of the Sanatana Dharma, and it is believed to be a means of attaining union with the Divine. The practice of puja is not just an outward expression of devotion but is also a way of purifying the mind and heart, fostering inner peace and spiritual growth.
