India is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world, with some of the most deeply religious societies and cultures. Religion still plays a central and definitive role in the life of most of its people.

PUJA – I

Some ritual culture at Gangasagar Mela.

PROVAT AROTI (Morning Puja)

Early morning puja at Varanasi on the Ganges.

PUJA -II

DIWALI

Diwali or Deepaawali is one of the most glamorous and important festivals celebrated in India.

IN MEMORY OF FOREFATHERS

He came all the way from Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, to Varanasi to bring homage to his deceived ancestors, like so many Hindu from all over India, believing that after death, the soul given to the Goddess Ganga, remains in the river of life and death.

PUJA III

Ahuti is an oblation or offering. It can also refer to a sacrifice. However, when conducting with a Yagnya it is customary to have a havan or fire sacrifice. The fire is ceremoniously lit, symbolic of inviting Agni the fire God and the mantras are chanted an offering of ghee or havan samagri (a mixture of herbs, flower and ghee) is offered to the fire at the end of the mantra.

I saw this woman giving YAGNYAHUTI in Gangasagar Mela in Sagar Dwip, West Bengal. Instead of havan samagri she was throwing those cotton balls with ghee from that container.

SONDHA AROTI ( Evening Puja)

Evening Puja at Varanasi on the Ganges.