History - - Posted on May, 21 at 1:13 pm
The paraphernalia involved in performing Pujas is designed to create an appropriate ambience, a divine fervour and elevate the state of mind to prepare the performer to receive God’s grace.
The items used for a Puja are chosen to pleasantly soothe the five senses. Flowers, Kumkum and green leaves are colourful natural objects that are a treat to the eyes. The sound of the bell and conch are pleasing to the ears. The Chandana (sandal) paste and the garments offered are for the sense of touch, the lingering smell of incense produces a calming effect on the act of breathing and the mild aroma of the food (either cooked or simply fruits) offered stimulates the sense of taste.
The various elements associated with Pujas are pregnant with symbolism. For instance, the Kalasha, or the pot filled with water symbolises life, blades of Durva grass are a symbol of growth of the family and so on.
In addition to these symbolic meanings, many of these elements have medicinal value too. Applying cool Chandana paste on the forehead extracts the heat from the body, turmeric powder is an acknowledged antiseptic, Tulsi leaves are good for cough, cold and respiratory disorders (Tulsi is an important ingredient of many Ayurvedic medicines). Many elements have Puranic stories linked to them like the Shankha or the conch is linked to a demon called Shankhasura.
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