PRABHU KI ASTHA

Akhand Ramayan Puja is a powerful spiritual practice where the entire Ramayan is recited or listened to continuously, often over several days, to invoke divine blessings and purify the mind and soul. To perform this sacred puja, a specific set of samagri (ritual items) is required to maintain the sanctity of the ceremony. The key component of the Akhand Ramayan Puja is the Ramayan book or scripture, preferably in a clean and sacred form, placed at the center of the ritual space. A clean cloth is spread on the altar to create a pure and sacred space for the reading or listening session.

The puja thali contains essential items like kumkum (vermilion), turmeric (haldi), chandan (sandalwood paste), and akshata (rice mixed with turmeric), used for offering prayers and marking the puja as auspicious. Ghee lamps (diyas) are lit to invite divine light and energy, and incense sticks (agarbatti) or dhoop are burned to purify the air and set a spiritual tone for the ceremony. Camphor is also lit to signify the destruction of negativity and the illumination of the mind.

A kalash (sacred water pot) is often placed on the altar, representing Goddess Lakshmi and bringing blessings of prosperity and well-being. The kalash is typically filled with water, adorned with mango leaves, and topped with a coconut. In addition, flowers—mainly marigold or lotus—are used for decoration and as offerings to the divine. Betel leaves and betel nuts, as well as fruits like bananas, coconuts, and apples, are also part of the offering, signifying respect and devotion.

A mouli (sacred thread) is tied either to the participants’ wrists or around the kalash, invoking divine protection and blessing. To mark the occasion and symbolize the worship of Lord Rama, a picture or idol of Lord Rama is often placed on the altar for devotion. If the puja is being performed in conjunction with a havan (sacred fire), additional havan samagri, including herbs, ghee, and wood for the fire, are essential.

Lastly, Ganga jal (holy water) is often sprinkled on the altar and around the participants, purifying the surroundings and invoking sacred vibrations. These ritual items create a spiritually charged environment conducive to listening, reciting, or meditating on the divine teachings of the Ramayan. Together, they form an essential part of the Akhand Ramayan Puja, allowing devotees to experience divine blessings and spiritual upliftment.