Comprehensive Guide on How to Worship Maheshwari in Hinduism
Maheshwari, a manifestation of the goddess Shakti, is revered as one of the Sapta Matrikas (Seven Mothers) in Hinduism. Worshipping Maheshwari invokes her blessings for protection, strength, wisdom, and prosperity. Here is a comprehensive guide for conducting Maheshwari Puja, keeping it eco-friendly and simple, while adhering to traditional methods.
1. Preparation and Cleanliness
Before beginning any puja, cleanliness and purity of the body, mind, and surroundings are essential.
- Bathing: Start your day with a bath and wear clean, traditional clothing.
- Puja Space: Choose a clean, calm, and quiet space for the puja. Clean the space with water and wipe down surfaces. Use rangoli or kolam (made with rice flour) to decorate the space.
- Altar Setup: Set up an altar with an image or idol of Maheshwari, preferably eco-friendly, made of clay or natural materials.
2. Best Time for Maheshwari Puja
Maheshwari Puja can be performed in the early morning (Brahma Muhurta – 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM) or during Pradosh Kaal (just after sunset). Tuesdays and Fridays are considered auspicious for worshipping goddess energies, including Maheshwari.
3. Clothing for the Puja
Wear clean, traditional attire. Colors that are considered auspicious for Maheshwari Puja include:
- Red or Yellow: These colors signify energy, power, and prosperity.
- White: Denotes purity and peace.
- Avoid synthetic fabrics and opt for cotton or silk garments that are natural and eco-friendly.
4. Puja Items Required (Eco-friendly)
Use natural and biodegradable items for the puja to stay eco-friendly. The following are essential items:
- Kalash (copper or brass pot filled with water)
- Eco-friendly idol or picture of Maheshwari (preferably made from clay or natural materials)
- Fresh flowers (Jasmine, Lotus, Hibiscus, or Marigold)
- Fruits (Banana, Coconut, Pomegranate, etc.)
- Natural incense sticks (Sandalwood, Jasmine, or Rose)
- Pure Ghee or Mustard Oil Lamp (with cotton wicks)
- Eco-friendly Kumkum and Haldi (made from natural ingredients)
- Natural camphor for Aarti
- Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, honey, ghee, curd, and sugar)
- Betel leaves and nuts (if available)
- Coconut for breaking as an offering
- Gangajal for sprinkling
- Garlands made from cotton thread or natural fiber
- Puja thali (preferably copper or brass)
Make sure to avoid plastic, thermocol, and synthetic decorations or offerings.
5. Simple Steps to Perform Maheshwari Puja
Here are the basic steps to worship Maheshwari:
Step 1: Purification and Invocation (Dhyana)
- Sprinkle Gangajal around the puja space and on yourself to purify the surroundings.
- Sit in a comfortable position and meditate for a few minutes, focusing on Maheshwari. Light the lamp and incense sticks.
Step 2: Kalash Sthapana
- Place the Kalash filled with water on the altar, covering it with mango leaves and placing a coconut on top. This symbolizes the presence of the goddess.
Step 3: Offering Flowers (Pushpa)
Offer fresh flowers (eco-friendly and not artificially dyed) to the goddess. While offering flowers, chant:
“Om Maheshwariyai Namah”
Alternatively, offer a garland made of flowers or cotton.
Step 4: Kumkum and Haldi
- Apply natural Kumkum (vermilion) and Haldi (turmeric) to the idol or picture of Maheshwari.
Step 5: Chanting Mantras and Prayers
Recite Maheshwari’s specific mantras or prayers dedicated to her:
Maheshwari Mool Mantra:
Om Hreem Maheshwaryai Namah
This mantra invokes her blessings for protection, wisdom, and spiritual growth.
You may also chant the following:
Om Maheshwari Devyai Namaha
Recite 108 names of Maheshwari, if possible, with devotion.
Step 6: Offering Prasad
Offer fruits, coconut, and sweets made from natural ingredients such as jaggery, ghee, and flour. Eco-friendly prasad options include:
- Coconut Ladoo (made with grated coconut and jaggery)
- Panchamrit (offering made from milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee)
Offer the prasad with humility and devotion.
Step 7: Aarti
Perform Aarti with a ghee lamp and camphor, waving the light in a circular motion in front of the goddess while chanting the Aarti hymn:
“Om Jai Maheshwari Mata” (if there is an aarti hymn for your tradition)
Sing or play Maheshwari bhajans (devotional songs) during the Aarti.
6. How to Conclude the Puja
- Pradakshina (Circumambulation): Walk around the altar three times, showing respect to the goddess.
- Prayers of Gratitude: Bow down in front of the goddess and offer your gratitude for her protection and blessings.
- Distribution of Prasad: Once the puja is completed, share the prasad with family members and devotees.
7. What to Do with Puja Leftover Items
Adhere to eco-friendly methods to dispose of or reuse puja items:
- Flowers and Leaves: Compost leftover flowers, leaves, and biodegradable items. They can also be placed in flowing water (like a river) if that is permitted locally.
- Water in Kalash: The water in the Kalash can be sprinkled around the house or used to water plants.
- Ash from Incense or Camphor: Ash can be sprinkled in the garden, as it is beneficial for plants.
- Prasad: Ensure that all prasad is consumed by family, friends, or distributed to others. Do not waste or throw it away.
- Clothes: Use eco-friendly clothes like cotton or silk which can be washed and reused.
8. Importance and Benefits of Maheshwari Puja
Worshipping Maheshwari is believed to offer the following spiritual and material benefits:
- Protection: Maheshwari protects her devotees from negative influences, evil energies, and harm.
- Wisdom and Intelligence: She grants wisdom, intelligence, and clarity of thought.
- Spiritual Growth: Worshipping her helps in progressing on the spiritual path, ensuring peace and tranquility.
- Strength and Courage: She empowers her devotees to overcome challenges with strength and resilience.
- Success and Prosperity: Devotees seek her blessings for success in personal and professional life, as well as financial prosperity.
Maheshwari Puja is a simple yet powerful way to connect with the divine feminine energy. By using eco-friendly and traditional products, you not only honor the goddess but also show respect for the environment. By following these guidelines, you can perform a meaningful and spiritually enriching puja that brings peace, protection, and prosperity into your life.