Course

Module 1: Principles and Philosophy of Puja

• Summary of diverse modes of Puja
• Study of Vedic scriptures and Puranas
• Significance of tradition in puja
• Theory of Devata
• Function of Puja in individual spiritual practice
• Pancha and Shodashopachara Puja

Module 2: The practice of Shodashopachara Puja

Dhyanam andAavaahanam, Aasana, Paadya. Arghya, Aachamana, Madhuparka, Snaana, Vastra and Upaveeta, Gandha, Pushpa. Dhoopa, Deepa, Naivedya, Taamboola, Nirajanam, Mantrapushpa and Pradakshina

Module 3: Abhyasa and Anushthana

• Importance of Abhyasa and Anushthana.
• Emphasis on purity and deliberate intent
• Participants engage in a distilled rendition of the puja ceremony
• Structured guidance through the comprehensive puja.
• Collective reflection and evaluative discourse

Module 4: Anusandhana

• Exploring modalities to intensify devotional practices Integrating puja into quotidian routines
• Participants articulate reflections and revelations from the practices.
• Culmination in a collective puja enactment.
• Expressing gratitude towards nature as an embodiment of divinity.

Assessment and Evaluation

• Evaluation – 100 % internal
• Assessment – 1: 30 marks, Assessment – 2: 30 Marks, Semester End Assessment – 40 marks
• Internal (3 members’ committee for evaluation during semester)

Materials Needed

• Puja thali (plate), Panchapatram, Uddharanam – steel or copper
• Flowers and fresh offerings (fresh or dry fruits)
• Incense sticks and a Diya (lamp)
• Water and clean cloths
• Images or murtis of chosen deities
• Mantra texts and prayer beads (Japa mala)

Reference Materials

• Compiled material by Amrita Darshanam-ICSS, Coimbatore

The objective of the Spiritual Praxis course is to equip participants with a thorough comprehension of the traditional and systematic methods of Puja Vidhana that are based on Indian Knowledge System. This will help them to practice step by step Puja with dedication and devotion. Through the integration of theoretical guidance and practical application, students will acquire an understanding of the significance of each phase of the puja.
Course Duration:60 Hours