In some regions, a special offering, or prasad, is prepared using neem leaves on Dhantrayodashi or Dhanteras, two days before Diwali. The offering is made to
all deities. It is believed that this offering will help in having a disease free and healthy year.
For preparing the offering, 10 to 15 tender leaves of neem, 4 spoons of soaked channa dal, 1 spoon honey, 1 spoon jeera and a pinch of asafetida is
mixed and grinded to a paste.
The paste is first offered as offering to the deities
worshiped at home in the morning or evening.
It is then distributed among family members.
This offering is famous in certain areas in western parts of
India.