Dussehra special: Set-up your pooja space with these easy tips to add love, devotion, positivity

With Dussehra and Diwali approaching, the air is rich with the fragrance of incense, the chanting of mantras, and vibrant decorations across homes and temples. As you light lamps and offer prayers during Dussehra, the beautiful and spiritual place of worship at your home will be at the heart of the celebration, inviting blessings, peace, and a deep sense of spiritual connection.

From timeless traditions or adding a touch of modernity with online shopping finds, the key is to infuse your pooja space with love, devotion, and positive energy.

Here are 8 tips for creating a beautiful and spiritual space for puja during Dussehra:

• Choose the right location: Select a quiet and peaceful spot in your home where the altar can be set up. It’s ideal to place it in the northeast corner (Ishanya), as it’s believed to be the most auspicious for worship. Whether it’s a dedicated puja room or a small space, make sure it feels serene and inviting.

• Cleanse the space: Before setting up the altar, thoroughly clean the area. Use natural cleansing methods, such as mopping the floor with water infused with rock salt or a few drops of sandalwood essential oil. Purifying the space ensures that it’s free of negative energy, making it ready for the divine.

• Use an elegant wooden or brass altar stand: A traditional wooden altar stand or a brass platform can serve as the base for your deities and puja items. Opt for beautifully carved wooden mandirs and brass puja chowkis that can be easily delivered to your home. Purchase ones that suit your home’s aesthetic, whether it’s ornate or minimalist.

• Choose symbolic idols and images: During Dussehra, idols of Ganesha, Durga, Lord Ram, and Hanuman take center stage. Make sure the idols are beautifully crafted and symbolise the divinity they represent. These can be made of brass, marble, and wood. Arrange them carefully on the altar, making sure each deity has enough space for offerings.

• Add fresh flowers and garlands: Flowers are an essential part of any puja. You can adorn the altar with fresh marigold, jasmine, or rose garlands. These flowers not only add colour but also bring fragrance and vitality to your space. If fresh flowers aren’t easily available, you can order artificial garlands from online platforms, which offer beautiful, lifelike garlands and floral decorations.

• Brass lamps and diyas: Lighting lamps and diyas is symbolic of dispelling darkness and inviting divine energy. Place a few brass or silver lamps on the altar. Look for traditional designs on sites which offer handcrafted lamps with intricate detailing. Light the lamps with pure ghee or sesame oil, and let their soft glow enhance the spiritual ambiance.

• Keep your altar organised with a puja essentials kit: To keep your puja organised, invest in a puja essentials kit that includes items like a bell, incense holder, conch, and sacred threads. These kits are readily available on websites. Having everything in one place helps keep the space clutter-free and ensures that you can perform rituals seamlessly.

• Use incense and natural scents: Aromatic incense, camphor, and dhoop create a divine atmosphere and purify the air. Choose natural incense made from sandalwood, jasmine, or rose for a calming effect. Use organic, toxin-free incense and eco-friendly products crafted from recycled temple flowers.