Most home pujas use the same basic items. Keep this list handy, then add the special items your pandit asks for. Buying the basics early saves a last-minute rush on the day.

Basic items for most pujas

  • Roli or kumkum, haldi, chandan (sandalwood paste) and akshat (unbroken rice).
  • Flowers, a garland, tulsi leaves and mango leaves.
  • Diya, ghee or oil, cotton wicks, camphor and incense sticks.
  • Kalash, coconut, supari, paan leaves and a few coins.
  • Kalava (sacred red thread) and janeu if needed.
  • Fruits, sweets and dry fruits for prasad.
  • A clean cloth (red or yellow) for the chowki, and an aasan to sit on.
  • A bell, a plate (thali), small bowls and a spoon for water.

Extra items for a havan

  • A havan kund (many pandits bring one).
  • Mango wood or havan sticks, and havan samagri mix.
  • Ghee, rice, sesame seeds and barley.
  • Matches and a fan or open window for smoke.

Puja-specific items

  • Satyanarayan Katha: panchamrit, banana leaves and sheera or panjiri for prasad.
  • Griha Pravesh: a kalash with water for the entrance, and milk to boil in the new kitchen.
  • Lakshmi puja: kheel-batashe, coins and new Lakshmi-Ganesha idols.
  • Rudrabhishek: bel patra, milk, curd, honey and Ganga jal.