Akshata means unbroken. Only unbroken rice grain should be
used in rituals and pujas and associated with Hindu religion. Tandula Akshata
is unbroken rice mixed with turmeric powder or vermilion. In some regions, ghee
made from cow’s milk is mixed with the unbroken rice.
Tandula Akshata is used for worship of gods especially during
rituals, pujas and festivals.
Offering the unbroken rice is equal to offering clothes and
ornaments to the deity.
It is also used during auspicious functions and also for
blessing married couples.
The practice of Tandula Akshata is Vedic origin and symbolically
suggests the indispensability of food.