Flowers play a significant role in rituals and worship, and using the right flowers in a puja is believed to bring divine blessings. Different deities have preferences for specific flowers. Here’s a list of commonly used flowers in pujas and their significance:
1. Jasmine (Malli)
- Known for its divine fragrance, jasmine flowers are commonly used in weddings and pujas.
- Preferred for deities like Lakshmi and Parvati.
2. Hibiscus (Sembaruthi)
- Red hibiscus flowers are particularly offered to Durga and Ganesha.
- They are considered powerful for worshipping energy-based deities like Durga and Kali.
3. Lotus (Kannipoo)
- Lotus flowers are often associated with Vishnu, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.
- Symbolic of purity and beauty, often seen in the depictions of gods and goddesses seated on them.
4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
- Tulsi leaves and flowers are offered to Vishnu and Krishna.
- Considered a sacred plant that brings prosperity and is an essential part of Hindu worship.
5. Marigold (Marukozhundhu)
- Marigold is used in pujas for deities like Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Saraswati.
- Its bright yellow and orange colors are symbolic of purity and positivity.
6. Rose (Roja)
- Roses, often seen as symbols of love, can be offered to various deities.
- Especially preferred by Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kaamadhenu.
7. Oleander (Arali)
- Oleander is specifically associated with Shiva.
- Widely used during special days like Maha Shivaratri and Pradosham.
8. Night-blooming Jasmine (Manoranjitham/Pavalamalli)
- Often used for deities like Shiva and Vishnu.
- Blooms at night and has a divine fragrance, making it special for evening rituals.
9. Crape Jasmine (Nandiyaavattam)
- Used for pujas dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Durga.
- Pure white flowers symbolizing cleanliness and purity.
10. Arabian Jasmine (Mullai)
- Preferred for Parvati, Lakshmi, and Murugan.
- These fragrant flowers are popular in garlands for deity adornment.
11. Yellow Oleander (Pichai)
- Mostly offered to Murugan and Ganesha.
- It is also associated with Vishnu during specific rituals.
12. Chrysanthemum (Sengandhal)
- Often used for deities like Ganesha, Lakshmi, and Saraswati.
- Available in various colors, primarily white and yellow.
Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Flowers for Puja:
- Flowers should be fresh and clean.
- Avoid using wilted, dry, or faded flowers.
- Specific colors may be required for particular deities. For instance, white oleander for Shiva, red hibiscus for Kali.
Using the right flowers during pujas can enhance the spiritual connection, as they symbolize devotion and reverence. Each flower carries its unique meaning, and offering them with pure intention is said to invoke divine blessings and well-being.
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