Diwali Puja Procedure

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with much enthusiasm across India. While the reasons behind the celebration vary from one region to another, the central theme remains the victory of light over darkness. Here’s a general procedure for Diwali Puja. Remember, the exact procedure can vary based on regional and family traditions.

Diwali Puja Procedure:

1. Preparation

• Clean the house: Diwali celebrations begin with cleaning the house, symbolizing the removal of negativity.
• Set up the altar: Choose a clean space, preferably in the northeast corner of the house. Place a raised platform or a chowki (small stool).
• Decorate with Rangoli: Draw rangoli designs at the entrance of the house and around the puja area using colored powders, flowers, and diyas (lamps).

2. Placing the Idols

• Place idols or images of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi on the altar. Some also include Lord Kuber.
• Behind the idols, place kalash (pot) filled with water topped with mango/betel leaves and a coconut.

3. Lighting the Diya

• Light the main diya (lamp) filled with ghee or oil. This lamp should be kept burning throughout the night.
• Light incense sticks.

4. Beginning the Puja

• Start by invoking Lord Ganesha, as he is the remover of obstacles. Offer flowers, recite Ganesha mantras, and offer prasad (usually sweets).
• Invoke Goddess Lakshmi. Offer flowers, recite Lakshmi mantras or shlokas, and offer prasad.

5. Offerings

• Offer haldi (turmeric) and kumkum to the deities.
• Offer sweets, fruits, and other delicacies as prasadam.
• Offer betel leaves, areca nuts, and clove to the deities.

6. Aarti

• Perform the aarti for both Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. This involves circulating an aarti plate or diya in front of the deities while singing hymns.
• At the end of the aarti, take blessings by placing your hands over the flame and then touching your eyes and head.

7. Distribution of Prasad

After the aarti, distribute the prasad among family members and attendees.

8. Bursting Firecrackers

After the puja, many families burst firecrackers to drive away evil spirits. Ensure to follow safety precautions.

9. Keeping the Lights On

It’s customary to keep lamps, candles, and lights on during the entire night of Diwali to welcome Goddess Lakshmi into the home.

10. Seek Blessings

Touch the feet of elders in the family to seek their blessings for a prosperous year ahead.