Puja Direction: Puja has special importance in Hindu religion. Many rules related to this have also been mentioned in religious texts. Also pay special attention to the direction in which the puja should be performed while sitting.
Best Direction for Worship: In Hindu religion, worship is not just a religious tradition but also a medium of mental peace and spiritual connection. Therefore, while worshiping, there is special focus on the direction, place and way of sitting. Often the question arises that in which direction is it better to sit and do puja? Does the direction really have any special significance? According to Vastu Shastra, right direction while worshiping always helps in increasing positive energy and concentration.
Which direction is best while doing puja?
According to Vastu Shastra, it is most auspicious to worship facing east. East direction is the direction of sun rise. Sun is the source of energy, light and life. Therefore, sitting and worshiping in this direction provides positive thinking and mental peace. For example, the home temple is such a place, where while worshiping, your face remains towards the east, then it is considered good.
It is also good to worship facing north. After the east direction, the north direction is also considered auspicious for worship. In Vastu Shastra, north direction is considered a symbol of prosperity and auspiciousness. For example, if for some reason it is not possible to sit in the east direction of the house, then worship can be done by sitting in the north direction.
Can worship be done sitting towards the west?
Yes. But sitting and worshiping in the west direction is not considered as auspicious as in the east and north direction. However, in many temples, the idol of the God is installed towards the east, due to which the devotees sit towards the west and worship. In such circumstances it is considered correct.
Why should worship not be done facing south?
According to Vastu Shastra, one should avoid facing south while worshiping. The reason for this is that the south direction is considered the Yama direction.
In which direction should the home temple be?
According to Vastu Shastra, it is considered most auspicious to have the temple or worship place of the house in the north-east (northeast corner). This direction is considered to be connected to spiritual energy. If it is not possible to build a temple in the north-east corner, then worship can also be done in a clean and quiet place in the house.
What is more important than direction in puja?
Experts say- Success of puja does not depend only on the direction. True devotion, concentration of mind and positive emotions are most important for worship. Even if for some reason you cannot sit and worship in the right direction, worship done with a true heart has equal importance. For example, many people also perform puja in hotel, train or other places during travelling. It is not possible to keep track of direction there.
Things to keep in mind while worshiping…
– The place of worship should be clean.
– The mind should be calm while worshipping.
– Worship should be done in the morning.
– Keep the lamp and incense sticks in a safe place.
– Stay away from mobile and any kind of obstructions during puja.
– Positivity remains in the mind by worshiping every day.
5 interesting things related to worship…
1. The word ‘Pooja’ is derived from Sanskrit language, which means to honor God or any revered person with respect, honor and reverence. Therefore puja is not limited to just lighting the lamp, but it shows faith and respect.
2. In Hindu tradition, the time of sunrise and sunset is considered best for worship, meditation and prayer. Both these times are called ‘evening’. During this period the atmosphere remains calm.
3. Bells are rung before starting the puja in temples and homes. This purifies the atmosphere of worship and concentrates the mind.
4. During the puja, a lamp of basil leaves and ghee or oil is lit. Tulsi is a sacred plant, while Deepak is a symbol of knowledge, light and positivity.
5. Puja does not just mean praying to fulfill one’s desires. It is also a medium to express gratitude towards God, introspect and keep the mind calm.
Some interesting data from worship
1. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 84% Indians believe that religion is very important in their lives.
2. According to the survey- 6 out of 10 Indians (60%) pray, worship or do namaz every day.
3. 71% of people in India visit their religious place at least once a month.
4. About 81% of the houses in India have a temple, altar or some religious symbol for worship.
5. According to the survey, 76% of Hindus worship at home at least once a week, while 53% of Hindus visit a temple at least once a week.
Content Source: Brihad Vastu Shastra, Vishnu Dharmottara Purana, Pew Research Center, general guidelines based on traditional worship methods published by various Vastu experts and religious scholars.