Puja, Aarti, Yajña
Devotional Salutations to the Divine
The Art of Aarti: Devotional Salutations to the Divine
Aarti is a devotional ritual performed around the sacred fire, known as the dhuni, a central element of the ashram tradition. The dhuni represents transformation, where offerings are made with devotion, symbolizing the release of ego and inner limitations.
The ritual begins with sacred sounds such as the damaru (drum) and conch, carrying the vibration of AUM and inviting a shift from duality into unity. Through mantra, fire offerings, and presence, Aarti becomes both an external ritual and an inner process of purification and awareness.
The dhuni is considered a deeply sacred space, and its fire symbolizes the transformative power within each individual.
Temple and its symbolism
The temple at the ashram represents the journey of consciousness through different layers of being. Each level symbolizes stages of inner evolution, moving from more grounded states toward subtle awareness.
At its center, the Shiva lingam embodies the infinite — without beginning or end — and represents the union of Shiva and Shakti. The continuous flow of Ganga water over the lingam symbolizes purification, grace, and the transmission of knowledge from teacher to student.
The temple is not only a place of worship, but a living representation of the path from individuality toward unity.
Puja (Devotional Worship)
Puja is a practice of devotion expressed through chants, mantras, and symbolic offerings. It begins by invoking the blessings of Lord Ganesha, followed by prayers honoring the guru, Shiva, Shakti, and the divine in its many forms.
Through these practices, participants are guided into a state of presence and receptivity. The rituals, including chanting, offering flowers, and circumambulating the temple, create a meditative flow that supports inner connection and clarity.
Puja is not only performed — it is experienced as a way to cultivate humility, awareness, and devotion in daily life.
Yajña (Homa Fire Ceremony)
Yajña, or Homa fire ceremony, is performed during new and full moons and on special occasions. Offerings are made into the sacred fire while Vedic mantras are chanted, creating a powerful atmosphere of purification and transformation.
This ritual harmonizes the five elements — earth, water, fire, air, and ether — and supports balance across body, mind, and spirit. Yajña is considered a path toward inner clarity and alignment with the greater whole.
Listen to how we start our mornings…
