ॐ    Hindu Of Universe ॐ

“God’s light is within you, It never leaves you.”

Prasada is a Sanskrit word, which means grace or favor.

In ancient traditions and texts, Prasada referred to the mental state experienced by Gods, sages, and other influential people.

We can find a similar explanation in the Rig Veda as well.

It was only through Shiva Purana Prasada gained reference as an offering of material substances.

In the present era, Prasada or Prasadam is the food or water offered to the deity while worshipping or conducting puja.

After the completion of the puja, Purohit distributes the Prasad to the worshipers.

They eat them as they are equal to accepting the blessings from God.

Devotes make different kinds of offerings to the deities.

However, it is essential to provide Sattvik food or vegetarian items to God.

There are other aspects to be considered while offering food to God.

They include:

1. Always prepare the food in a clean and hygienic place.

One has to make food with a stable mindset as preparing food for the deities is an act of conveying our reverence.

2. The ingredients used for making the food must be clean as it aids in imbibing Sattvik Gunas.

3. Avoid using onions, garlic, and mushrooms, while preparing food for the deities.

It is because

they contain elements capable of inducing passion, as per the Vedic scriptures.

4. Always offer food to the deities in a clean and unused utensil.

5. While preparing the food for the deities, never taste them before offering it to the Gods and Goddesses.

These are some factors one must consider while preparing food to be offered to the deities.

Devotes can offer the food items prepared in their houses to the idols in their home altars.

It is a way of acquiring blessings from the divine entities.

However, in temples, there are different kinds of Prasads available.

Theertha is the holy water offered to the devotees by the priest while visiting a temple.

They also give flowers as Prasada.

One of the unique Prasadas given from the temples is Panchamrita.

It is a combination of ghee, milk, honey, curd, and sugar. In South India, Sakkara Pongal is a Prasad offered in many temples.

 Some temples also provide Wada, Lado, and Tahir Sadam as Prasadas to the devotees.

Temples also offer Prasadas based on the deities.

For instance, the temples of Lord Krishna offer milk products, butter, and Tulsi as Prasada.

Significance of Prasada in Puja:

“Patram Pushpam Phalan Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati, Tadahan, Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatat nanah”

This is a verse from the Bhagavat Gita regarding Prasada or the offerings one can make to the deities.

It means that the Lord accepts a loving heart, a leaf, a fruit, or water if the devotees provide it with devotion.

It is a representation of the notion that the materials offered to God are not as significant as the devotion.

There are other significances connected with Prasada as well.

1. Prasada can be food, water, or flowers that a devotee receives after the completion of a Puja. Worshippers believe that God consumes the food when we offer it to him or her.

It would make the food items gain spiritual vitalities.

When the devotees have the same food, they embrace the positive energy emanating from it.

2. Gaudiya Vaishnavas are believers of Lord Krishna.

They consume food only after they offer it to Lord Krishna.

They eat nothing without first offering it to Lord Krishna and getting His blessings.

3. There are three stages of Prasada.

The first one is preparation, where the devotees prepare the food in a hygienic place with clean ingredients.

The second one is offering it to the deities to garner blessings.

The third one is eating the Prasad with devotion.

The entire process is equal to a meditative discipline.

It is because it soothes our mind and enhances our mood.

4. You can also place food in front of an image of the deity.

It is a way of honoring God before consuming the food.

5. Though the concept of Prasada has a traditional origin, it has a logical explanation as well.

Prasada is clean and healthy.

Its consumption can aid in improving our health.

Prasada would have absorbed the positive vitalities as we place them in front of the deities.

The energy from the idol or the Murthi flows to the food.

These are some of the significance of involving Prasada in puja.

It is a way of gaining blessings from God.

It is also a sacred process.

Benefits of Prasada in a Puja:

There are several benefits of Prasada in a Puja. It is an essential part of Hindu rituals, ceremonies, and prayers.

After the completion of a Puja, the priest offers Prasad to the devotees as a blessing of God.

There are other benefits of Prasada in Puja as well.

1. On a material level, we cook the food offered as Prasada in a hygienic manner.

2. On a spiritual level, Prasad contains the grace of God.

3. As per Bhagavat Gita, the food that is given as Prasada includes Sattva Gunas and is healthy.

4. Prasad is also a symbol of mercy.

Many temples offer Prasada as meals to the people, which helps a lot of poor people.

5. The offering of food to God before consumption is the depiction of the idea that everything belongs to God.

Thus, the offering of Prasada is a significant part of Hindu pujas and rituals.

It is a way of attaining blessings from the Gods and Goddesses.

Know the significance of offering food to God

In the Hindu religion, food is offered to God during rituals or puja at home or temple. Eating of prasad after offering it to God is considered as holy and divine gifts from the Gods that are seen as blessings and something that one must not refuse.

What is prasad?

Prasad is an offering made to a Hindu deity, usually eatable food items, which is thereafter distributed to the devotees as the deity’s blessings. Basically, it is related to the spiritual belief of an individual.

When we offer food to God in the form of Prasad, it becomes blessed by the divine grace.

What things should you keep in mind while preparing prasad?

We must follow some important guidelines while preparing food for God, as mentioned below:

• Only Satvik food is offered to God. God only accepts purely vegetarian offerings.

It means that the offerings are away from any pain and cruelty.
• Food should be prepared in a clean place with clean ingredients and stable mindset because its combination increases the Satva Guna in food.

So one should be in a calm, peaceful and contemplative frame of mind while preparing food for God as we are acting for God’s satisfaction.
• Onion, Garlic, Mushrooms like vegetables are prohibited in the offering.

In Vedic scriptures, it is explained that these foods excite the more passionate elements of the human psycho-physical constitution.

It may vary from religion to religions.
• Prasad should be offered in the clean and unused utensil.

The place should be cleaned first before offering.

Some curtain is placed during offering Prasad.
• We must not taste the food before it is offered to God.

The preparing of Prasada is done as an active devotional meditation.

So the goal is to prepare delicious foods, not with our satisfaction in mind, but thinking only of the satisfaction of God.

Therefore, He should be the first to “taste” the fruits of our labours.

But opinion is still different and varies with person to person.

In Ramayan, Shabri offered the tasted berries to Lord Ram.

It is connected to serve best and sweetest berries to her Deity.

So your intention also matters.

How to offer prasad to God?

When the food is ready, take a sampling of each preparation, along with a glass or cup of water, and place them in a special plate that is used only for offering food to God. This plate should never be used for any other purpose than offering food as Prasad. Place the plate of food before the sacred image, picture or idol of God.

Then remain in silent doing food blessing prayer for 5 – 10 minutes and request the Lord to accept your offering.

After you have offered the food in this way, the food that you have cooked is now sanctified and considered to be Prasad, food transformed into the grace of God.

The food on the plate should be re-merged into the food in the pots.

Having thanked the Lord for accepting your offering, the Prasad can now be eaten.

Prasad distribution should be done with clean hands.

How to take prasad?

Always take the Prasad with your right hand.

Never use the left hand.

Both hands may be used but place your right palm over left palm, bow your head, and then receive it.

You should not throw anything on the floor even if you don’t want it.

List of Unique Hindu Prasads:

• Panchamitra: It is a combination of five items milk, ghee, honey, curd, sugar/jaggery. This is one of the basic nine types of Naivedyam which offered to God.
• In South the Gods are offered with Sakkara Pongal, means sweet rice, Pulihora, means tamarind rice, Pongal, means rice mingled with moong daal and added with pepper powder, and the most famous Tahir Sadam, the curd rice. And in big temples like Tirupathi, the Lord is offered with Laddu and Wada.
• Modak or Laddus are served to Lord Ganesha.
• Kheer – A preparation of Milk, rice and Sugar is offered to Goddess Lakshmi.
• Milk products, Butter Shrikhand, is offered to Lord Krishna. Tulsi is a must ingredient in offering Naivaidhyam to Lord Krishna.
• Besides this, any fruits, dry fruits or sweets can be offered to God.

The significance of offering food to God is infused with divine consciousness and spiritual enlightenment.

While eating the Prasad, always be conscious and aware that you are partaking in the special grace of God.

So eat it with reverence.

What’s the significance of Prasadam in Hinduism and Hindu temples?

All that you do, all that you eat, all that you offer and give away, as well as all austerities that you may perform, should be done as an offering unto Me.” Bhagwat Geeta.

So offering what we eat to the Lord is an integral part of bhakti-yoga and makes the food blessed with spiritual potencies.

“Patram Pushpam Phalam Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati, Tadaham Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatatmanah”

Whoever offers a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water with devotion, that I accept, offered as it is with a loving heart”.

Thus, we can see that the Lord does not need anything, but if one offers fruits, grains, and vegetarian foods, He will accept it.

Indians make an offering of food to the Lord and later partake of it as prasaada – a holy gift from the Lord.

What we offer to God is Naivedyam.

When it comes back to us, it becomes Prasada.

Literally, a gracious gift.

The prasad has the deity’s blessing residing within it.

To most of us, prasada means something edible and that is all.

But the real meaning of prasada is “purity, cheerfulness, bliss, joy, peace”.

This is our true gain upon tuning our minds with the Lord during the worship.

The real prasada is the feeling of peace we experience in our hearts while looking at the idol of the Lord after we have performed our daily puja with love and devotion.

Experiencing the peace and joy is how we tune our minds to the Lord.

There is a Bhavana, an attitude involved in it. This attitude is born of the vision of God.

Prasada is not an object. It is purely born of understanding.

The understanding of the reality is the basis for prasada.

In its material sense, prasada is created by a process of giving and receiving between a human devotee and the divine god.

A flower accepted for one’s sense gratification is material, but when the same flower is offered to the Supreme by a devotee, it is spiritual.

Food taken and cooked for oneself is material, but food cooked for the Supreme Lord is spiritual prasäda.

This means the mercy of the Lord.

Thus, the food we eat after it is offered to the Lord becomes a means for our purification and spiritual development.

This is the appreciation of God.

We accept that God is the author of the result of our actions. The result thus becomes prasada since it comes from God.

Thus result of every action must be looked upon as prasada from the Lord.

So we have to be alive to the reality of our being the doer of action and God being the giver of the result.

Therefore, even if I do not get what I expected, I still accept the result as prasada and having become wiser, work harder.

A person ultimately becomes wiser by the attitude of prasada.

We welcome whatever comes to us and our whole life becomes a learning experience.

Thus we arrive at the meaning of prasada as the cheerful acceptance of the situation as it comes to me.

Thus prasada-buddhi becomes the attitude of glad acceptance.

Anything that comes from the Lord is Grace or Prasada.

Let us learn to look upon the results of out actions given to me by the Lord as prasada.

Food is a gift from God, it should be treated with great respect.

Traditional Hindus offer food to God mentally before eating. “The devotees of the Lord are released from all kinds of sin because they eat food, which is offered first for sacrifice.

Others, who prepare food for personal sense enjoyment, verily eat only sin” Bhagwat Geeta.

What is Prasad

Prasada, commonly known as prasadam, is a religious offering to the deities, mostly food materials, by the Hindus and Sikhs.

It is thereafter consumed by the worshippers. The literal meaning of ‘prasad’ is ‘a gracious gift.’

It refers to any edible food item which is first offered to God, Almighty, then to the saint and later on to the followers in God’s name as a good sign.

The Prasad thus consumed is believed to have the blessings of the deity residing within it.

As per Hinduism, the main motive of pilgrimage and temple visits is to get the darshana and the Prasad of the deity.

‘Prasad’ has three stages to it viz.

preparing food for the same, offering it to the deity and eating of the food offered.

This entire process can be converted into a powerful devotional meditation.

The meditative discipline denotes that we should be able to offer our food to God with complete devotion before eating it ourselves.

Be doing so, we would not be implicated in the karma involved in acquiring the food and we would even be able to attain spiritual progress for eating the food offered as Prasad to the deity.

It is our intense devotion and belief in the deity which subtly transcends the offered food from mere material nutrition to a sacred, spiritual and merciful Prasad.

How to prepare the Prasad?

Important guidelines which should be followed before making Prasad for the deity:

• According to Hindu Dharma, God accepts only pure vegetarian offerings which have been acquired without giving pain or suffering to any other creature created by the Almighty.
• Food items like onion, garlic or mushrooms which excite the passionate elements of the human psycho-physical constitution are not offered to the deities as they do not accept them.
• The preparation of Prasad is supposed to be an active devotional meditation and hence the food prepared as Prasad should not be tasted before offering to the deity.

The idea behind this is to prepare delicious food keeping in mind to satisfy God as the major goal for it so that He is the first one to taste the fruits his devotees labor.

• The meditative goal of pleasing the God being the prime idea behind preparing Prasad, the environment in the kitchen too should be conducive to this. In other words, the atmosphere in the kitchen, or where the Prasad is being made, should be calm and peaceful and the preparer should be in a contemplative frame of mind.
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and purity is also of utmost importance while preparing, cooking and offering the Prasad.

The kitchen utensils should be absolutely clean.

Even we should be clean from top to toe before beginning the preparation or the Prasad meditation.

It is believed that if one meticulously follows the above guidelines for Prasad preparation and offering by maintaining a meditative consciousness of love and devotion for God, then the latter will surely accept the offering most gladly.

PRASAD : DELICIOUSLY DIVINE

The Hindu tradition of prasad is rooted in the belief that sharing food is a spiritual experience.

One of the most effective ways to show someone you love them is food.

This holds good for god too and its idea behind the custom of naivedyam, an offering made to a Hindu deity or guru. 

Naivedyam is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘offering to God’ in the stricter sense of the words.

It could be any offering, tangible or intangible.

A resolution, a promise, or even a willingness to do, perform, or restrict certain things can also connote an offering to God.

It means food offered to a Hindu deity as part of a worship ritual, before eating it.

As such, tasting during preparation or eating the food before offering it to God is strictly forbidden.

The food is first placed before a deity and specific prayers are offered with accompanying rituals.

Afterward, the food is considered as having been Blessed by God and has officially become the prasad.

Prasad is a material substance of vegetarian food that is a religious offering in both Hinduism and Sikhism.

It is normally consumed by worshippers after worship. Mahaprasada which is popularly known as Bhandara in Hinduism, similar to the langar in Sikhism, is the consecrated food offered to the deity in the temple which is then shared and eaten by the masses without discrimination. 

Prasada literally means a gracious gift.

It denotes anything, typically an edible food, that is first offered to a deity, saint, or an avatar, and then distributed in his or her name to their followers or others as a good sign.

Vegetarian food is usually offered and later distributed to the devotees who are present in the temple.

The offerings may include cooked food, sugarcane, or fruits.

By the word, prasad people feel sacred and they have a high belief that God has offered them and feeding them from prasad.

In its material sense, prasad is created by a process of giving and receiving between a human devotee and the divine god.

For example, a devotee makes an offering of a material substance such as flowers, fruits, or sweets.

The deity then enjoys or tastes a bit of the offering, which is then temporarily known as bhog.

It’s cooked with the best ingredients you can afford, usually in a heavy-bottomed bronze vessel, and served on a banana leaf in a certain region of the south.

That order is important too- you are not allowed to eat the naivedyam or prasad without first offering it to god.

The concept behind this kind of offer is to remind oneself that food is not merely intended to appease the taste buds or mind and soul.

It is believed that the sharing of prasad result in the sharing of wisdom.

In, certain cultures the freshly prepared food is transferred into a vessel then followed by the chanting of sacred mantras.

It is believed that every deity has a favorite food. 

For example- Lord Vishnu is though of kheer (made with milk and rice) or sheera (made with semolina, sugar, and butter).

 Lord Ganesh likes modak (rice dumpling stuffed with jaggery and coconut) and most goddesses have sweet tooth which can by payasam ( made with milk and rice).

But there are many gods who have been offered much different variety of prasad.

Unique Prasad At Temples

Khabees Baba Temple 

It is located in the Sitapur district of UP.

This temple doesn’t have any deity or any priest.

Devotees offer liquor or a pair of slipper-shaped structure on a raised platform where a saint lived here for 150 years.

Devotees get some portion of the alcohol in prasad.

Jagannath Temple

It is a very popular temple and commonly known for its rath yatra.

The temples offer mahaprasad to the deities which consist of 56 varieties of uncooked and cooked food dishes.

After being offered to deities, devotees can purchase the prasad from the stalls.

 Alagar Kovil Temple

 It is popularly known as the Azhagar Kovil in Madurai.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and distributes dosas as a prasad to devotees.

Many devotees offer grains as an offering to the deity and these grains are then used to make fresh, crispy dosas as prasad.

 Chinese Kali Temple

The Chinese Kali Temple was built by the Chinese who migrated to the place.

The temple is located in the Tangra region of Kolkata, which is also known as India’s Chinatown.

The prasad served here includes noodles, chop suey, and fried rice. 

Vaishno Devi Temple

It is a temple situated in Katra is perhaps the most famous temple in North India with lakh of devotees flocking to pilgrimage each year.

Devotees are offered puffed rice, balls of sugar, dried piece of apple, and coconut as prasad and packed in eco-friendly jute bags.

The temple offers steaming rajma chawal, kadi chawal, poori chana which are served at all of the shrine board eateries that have been constructed all along the pilgrimage trek.

 Golden Temple

It is a holy pilgrimage of Sikhs in Amritsar.

It offers meals to the devotees and they’re all fed for free sitting next to one another at the langar.

It is estimated that 2,00,000 chapatis and 1.5 tonnes of dal are cooked on a daily basis for the thousands of devotees who come here for the blessings.

Symbolism of Prasad in Hinduism – Naivedya – Bhog – Prasadam In Hindu Rituals

Prasad or prasadam is a Sanskrit word which refers to any material substance that is first offered to the deity, and then consumed (usually fruits, sweets, flowers).

The process of offering is called naivedya or bhog.

There is a deep symbolism and meaning associated with Prasad.

Once accepted by the temple deity, the prasad is returned to the devotee, it has the deity’s blessing residing within it.

So every temple visit usually has a two-way transaction.

You offer something to the deity in the temple, and you get it back enriched with blessings.

What’s more, when you go back home, you also get to share it with friends, neighbors and family.

The most famous Prasadams are the Tirupati Balaji Laddu, Sabarimala Aravana Payasam, Palani Panchamritham etc.

A fruit or any food item that is offered to the deity is a prasadam.

Symbolism of Prasad

In the early Rig Vedic texts, though, prasad was something else altogether.

It was originally a sort of inner mental state experienced by the Gods, or by wise sages, characterized by a spontaneous generosity and a bestowing of boons.

The morphing of this mental state into a material substance appeared only in later texts.

Perhaps devotees needed something concrete to take back from the daily ritual of prayer at the temple.

Or perhaps this very pragmatic religion understood that religion should nourish not just the soul but also the body!

What is Prasada ?

What we offer to God is naivedyam.

When it comes back to us, it becomes Prasada.

Now we feel the prasada ( be it a flower or a sugar candy or a dry fruit or ash) has undergone a change.

 Now it comes from the altar of the Lord.

The eyes see the same article, but the mind sees it differently and therefore we consider the prasada sacred. We thank God for giving us our food.

To most of us, prasada means something edible and that is all ! But the real meaning of prasada is “purity, cheerfulness, bliss, joy, peace”.

This is our true gain upon tuning our minds with the Lord during the worship.

The real prasada is the feeling of peace we experience in our hearts while looking at the idol of the Lord after we have performed our daily puja with love and devotion.

Experiencing the peace and joy is how we tune our minds to the Lord.

There is a Bhavana, an attitude involved in it.

This attitude is born of the vision of Iswara.

There is no equivalent word for prasada in English. 

Prasada is not an object. It is purely born of understanding. 

The understanding of the reality is the basis for prasada.
Even a diabetic will not refuse if he is offered a laddu from Thirupathi.

He will accept atleast a small piece of it since, coming from the altar of the Lord, it gets transformed into prasada.

That is education in our Hindu culture.

Now, let us go a little deeper.

The result that an action produces, whether it is more or less, or equal or opposite, comes from God.

This is the appreciation of God and that is maturity.

So we accept that God is the author of the result of our actions.

The result thus becomes prasada since it comes from God.

Thus result of every action must be looked upon as prasada from the Lord, irrespective of whether it is what we expect or opposite. This is Sameness of mind ( called samatvam in the Gita). 

This is born of understanding and cannot be forced upon anybody.

It is always born in the wake of some knowledge of reality.

So we have to be alive to the reality of our being the doer of action and God being the giver of the result. 

Therefore, even if I do not get what I expected, I still accept the result as prasada and having become wiser, work harder.

A person ultimately becomes wiser by the attitude of prasada.

We welcome whatever comes to us and our whole life becomes a learning experience.

Thus we arrive at the meaning of prasada as the cheerful acceptance of the situation as it comes to me.

Thus prasada-buddhi becomes the attitude of glad acceptance.
Anything that comes from the Lord is Grace or Prasada.

Let us learn to look upon the results of out actions given to me by the Lord as prasada.

Prasaadae sarvaduhkkhaanaam haani-raspyopajaayathae
Prasanna-chaethaso hyaas(h)u buddhih paryavathishtathae ( 2 – 65)

When the mind is tranquil, destruction of all pain and sorrow is born because the knowledge of one who is tranquil-minded soon becomes well-established. Importance of Prasad in Hinduism

The word ‘prasad’ means that which gives peace.

During any form of worship, ritual or ceremony, Hindus offer some items of food to the Lord.

Puja is done with Bael leaves, flowers, Tulasi (Basil plant), Vibhuti and these are given as Prasada from the Lord.

After offering to the god, the Prasad is shared between the devotees, members of their families and friends.

It is believed that the lord is pleased even with the smallest offering with devotion and love.

As Krishna says in the Bhagavadgita:

“Patram Pushpam Phalam Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati;
Tadaham Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatatmanah”

It means that the lord accepts it with a loving heart, a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water whoever offers with devotion.

There is no need to offer costly items to god like gold, silver, dress etc.

The mental attitude of the devotee offering to the lord is important.

It is believed that the grace of the lord descends to the devotee through Prasad.

A rich man may offers costly things to the Lord.

But when he feeds the poor and serves the sick, seeing the Lord in his fellow-beings is what actually matters.

Rites & Rituals Naivedya and Prasad

Food is an extremely important element in the sphere of religious activities of Hindus, as in many other cultures.

It acts as a transactional tool between men and gods and helps establish a relationship between the two.

The anthropomorphization of gods meant that they needed to be treated and fed just like humans.

The offering of Naivedya or Bhog is an important step or Upachara in any pooja.

The religious roots of this ritual can be traced back to the Vedic times, when sacrifices were the modus operandi.

By offering sacrifices, man could request, oblige, or compel gods to grant his wishes.

Though sacrifices continue to be offered on special occasions, the practice of offering daily naivedya is more commonplace.

The word ‘Naivedya’ denotes any kind of ‘offering to god’, but it is usually taken to mean food and water.

Food offered to the gods is prepared under strict codes of purity.

Ideally, the cook should have bathed, the foods should be sattvik in nature and it should not be tasted while cooking.

In some extreme cases, as in the Jagannath temple at Puri, the cooks are even forbidden to smell the food and they work with a cloth covering their noses!

Naivedya offerings are mostly vegetarian in nature, with the exclusion of even onions and garlic.

However, some shaktas are known to make meat offerings to the goddess. Once the food is cooked and served, it is offered to the gods along with some mantras and prayers and left before the image or murti for some time.

After this time, the food is said to have acquired spiritual significance and turns into prasad.

This prasad is then distributed among devotees, who partake in it as a special blessing from god.

The naivedya may be raw or cooked, ranging from one fruit to a lavish spread of 56 dishes called chappan bhog.

Common food offerings include fruits like bananas and coconuts, milk, betel leaves and nuts, rice and pulses, cooked vegetables, sweets and many others.

Speaking of sweets, the world’s most famous sweet offered as naivedya and then given as prasad is the Tirupati laddu that recently turned 300 years old and even acquired a GI or Geographical Indication status!

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Naivedhya – The Favorite Food Offerings To Your Favorite Gods

Food is the basic necessity of life.

The body itself is a miraculous machine and what we put into it is of utmost importance for its optimum well-being.

The food that we consume is a part of Pancha Mahabhuta.

In Ayurveda, it is said that the components & functioning of our body components and its functions mimic nature.  

Pancha Mahabhuta theory states that everything in the physical creation is composed of 5 elements. 

The very first element that comes into existence is akash (Ether).

It is the most expansive and least concrete of all.

The next element derived is Vayu (Air) then comes Agni (Fire), then Jala (water) element is formed, and lastly Prithvi (earth) element is formed.

According to Yog-Shastra, our body is called annakosha, that is, flesh formed from anna i.e food.

Our flesh then becomes food for other animals.

Plants consume the elements, especially the Pancha Mahabhut, including sunlight and water.

Plants, in turn, are consumed by animals, which are then eaten by other animals.

Naivedhya – The Pious Food

The food that we offer to God is considered to be naivedhya or bhog.

It is not a custom to offer the entire food to God so a portion may be taken out separately and offered.

The portion offered to God is then mixed with the major helping.

It is treated as a blessing from God and utmost respect is shown for it.

Our religion provides us with enough occasions to revere each god and elaborate ways of pleasing God.

Food is the way to heart some say, and that seems to apply to the Hindu gods as well. 

Here are a few of the preferred food of our deities.

Common offerings to the deities

In the Vedas, milk is given a lot of importance.

Ghee, a milk product, is offered during yagnas to Agni, said to be the hunger of the gods.

Panchamrita contains five milk products – milk, both raw and boiled, ghee, butter, and yogurt. Go-ras, cow urine, honey, and jaggery are all mixed in and offered to the gods. In the Puranas, it is said that Vishnu lies on Kshir Sagar, an ocean of milk.

Fruit may be raw or ripe.

 All fruits have different tastes and are offered to the gods depending on the type of fruit.

Lord Ganesha

Modaks are dumplings made with rice flour and packed with coconut and jaggery. Of course, there are many variations prepared across India.

Legend has it that a special modak was presented to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati by the demi-gods and it was said that the one who ate it would have command over scriptures, art, and writing.

Being a mother of two, Goddess Parvati wanted both her sons to have it, but the brothers weren’t willing to share.

So it was decided that the one who would travel around the world three times first would get the modak.

Instantly, Lord Kartikeya mounted his peacock and set off to travel the world.

But Lord Ganesha wisely mounted his vehicle (his mouse) and went around his parents whom he considered his world.

His wisdom won him the special modak. Since then, modak is Lord Ganesha’s, favorite sweet.

Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva is one God who is satisfied with minimal offerings.

Milk or any sweet that is made of milk is his favorite.

It is said that bhang is the most famous prasad that is offered to Lord Shiva, the Neelkantha.

He is also worshipped by preparing panchamrit, which is a mixture of five nectars – milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar.

These items are mixed in equal proportions and offered to Lord Shiva.

Goddess Laxmi

The Goddess of fortune is one of the most revered Goddesses. She likes anything that is made of rice.

So, your best bet would be offering her rice kheer and rice pancakes. Along with kheer, assorted mithais are made during this festival like gulab jamuns, pedas, ladoos are also offered to the Goddess.

Shri is Lakshmi, phal is fruit. It’s a fruit that you get round the year and one which is easily available.

These are always kept in the thali for puja.

Not only are these nutritious, but they are also a symbol of endless wealth and affluence.

Goddess Durga

Lord Vishnu said in Srimad Devi Bhagavatam: “The worshipper is to offer cake flour to Devi Durga. It is a rule to give an offering of payasam or kheer (known as Devi Payasa).”

On Navarati various offerings are made to the Goddess for nine days like; Pure Ghee, sugar and fruits, milk and sweets, malpuwa, banana, honey, jaggery, coconuts, and sesame seeds or til respectively for 9 days.

Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu incarnated himself as Lord Krishna and Lord Rama in different Yugas. Yellow-colored food products are preferred.

Offering him yellow lentils mixed with jaggery in order to please him.

Even yellow laddu is commonly offered to Narayan or Vishnu.

Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Narayan was very fond of butter so white butter mixed with a little sugar is often offered to Lord Krishna in order to please him.

Lord Krishna also loves laddu made of coconut.

On his birthday, Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami, mouth-watering delicacies are prepared to please him.

Gopalkala and shrikhand are prepared in the northern part of India and seedai, tattai and muruku are made in the southern part of the country.

A day after Diwali, a special spread with 56 food items called chhappan bhog is offered to Lord Krishna.

The day is called Annakut Utsav or Govardhan Puja.

It celebrates his victory after he lifted the Govardhan hill to save his villagers from the wrath of Lord Indra.

Lord Hanuman

The immortal bachelor is considered to be the Lord who removes all obstacles and protects his devotees.

His favorite food is red lentils.

You can offer red lentils soaked in water with jaggery to the Lord.

Shani Dev, Rahu, and Ketu

These Lords love the color black.

This is exactly why you can offer black sesame seeds and black lentils to these Lords in order to get blessed from them.

In addition, mustard oil is used for making different foods to be offered to Shani Dev.

Goddess Saraswati

Devi Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge and intellect.

Khichdi is often offered to goddess Saraswati in order to please her.

Boondi is a very desirable offering to Goddess Saraswati.

It is advised to offer the Prasad to the deity and share it among her devotees.

Lord Kubera

The god of wealth, Lord Kubera is fond of all things yellow especially laddoos.

You can also make yellow custard or kheer to please him.

Goddess Kali

Considered to be another form of Goddess Durga herself, she is worshiped for strength. Rice is prepared along with kheer, vegetables, and sweets to please Maa Kali.

For Devis, traditionally, there would be blood sacrifices goats, buffaloes, birds.

 Bhudevi, the earth goddess, is considered to be a cow whose milk sustains everyone.

In the form of Gauri, she gives milk, and in the form of Kali, she drinks blood – the cycle of life, as it were.

This is to emphasize the idea that whenever you eat, you’ve killed something, sacrificed someone, or offered Bali.

11 TEMPLE PRASAD YOU MUST TASTE IN INDIA

Temple Prasad is the divine food that you get in temples across India.

It is the food that we offer to the deity, who blesses it merely by coming in contact with the food.

When offered it is called Naivaidayam and once offered it becomes the divine prasad.

There are many different types of Prasad offered in different temples.

The food offered is as per the deity’s choice.

It also depends on the region where the temple is our deities really consume the local food.

Temple Prasad from India

Come with me to feel the bliss of temple prasad across India.

Mahaprasad at Jagannath Puri

Puri is the Anna Kshetra of Jagannath.

It is meant to be a place where God himself comes to eat.

No wonder then that the Jagannath Puri kitchen is the biggest kitchen in the world.

It also uses the traditional way to cook in fresh clay pots every day using the water from two wells within the temple premises.

The food cooked is a whole meal that is cooked by the Brahmins or Sevayats of the temple.

However, it is believed that the Mahalakshmi – the consort of the Jagannath herself looks over the kitchen.

The prasad is first offered to Jagannath after which it becomes Prasad.

It is then offered to Mahalakshmi, after which it becomes Mahaprasad.

You can visit the kitchen in the morning to see the cooking.

Later in the day you can visit Anand Bazaar and get the prasad which includes rice, daal, vegetables, and lots of sweets. In fact, people in and around Puri take the temple food for any functions at their homes.

To take home, dry items like Khaja are packed in neatly carved palm leaf boxes.

Tirupati Laddu

Who does not like Laddus from Tirupati Balaji? It is a unique Laddu with its own GI tag that every Balaji devotee craves.

Though it is made of the same ingredients that many laddus are made of – Gram Flour, Ghee, Sugar, Nuts and Spices, its secret ingredient is the devotion that goes into it.

After all, it is made to be offered to Venkateshwara – the one who lives on Tirumala hills.

Made in lakhs within the temple precincts, each laddu weighs about 200 gms and is offered to devotees after they have visited the temple.

The taste is divine and the phrase – you just can’t have one, seems to be written for it.

No wonder people not just eat but also pick up for taking it back home with them.

Makhan Mishri at Krishna Temples

Krishna’s childhood stories are full of his fondness for Makhan or butter.

There is ample poetry talking about his stealing the butter and then his naughty exchanges with his mother Yashoda.

So, it is natural that his temples offer Makhan along Mishri as Prasad.

This prasad is usually offered in the mornings as Krishna likes to eat Makhan in the morning.

Many Krishna temples offer Makhan Mishri prasad but I remember two temples where I have had it very fondly.

The first one is the famous Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan – the very land where Krishna lived as a youngster.  

Second is the Dwarkadhish temple in Dwarka – the golden city that he built on the west coast.

I remember asking for multiple helpings as I loved eating the freshly churned butter with a bit of sweetness of Mishri.

Even today I am thankful to the generous lady who was distributing the prasad that day.

Dried Apple in Vaishno Devi Temple Prasad

Vaishno Devi sits on top of Trikuta Parvat, near Jammu.

In North India, her’s is the most visited shrine.

They say you visit her only when you get her ‘Bulawa’ or call.

I am yet to get that call despite living in the vicinity many times.

However, I have been fortunate enough to receive the prasad from Ma Vaishno Devi many times.

You get Murmura or puffed rice, Ilaichidana or sugar balls, some dry fruits and sun-dried apples.

Dried apples are unique to the prasad of Ma Vaishno Devi.

They last for a long time, so you can take them back home, and keep them for people you may meet after some time.

They also carry the essence of the apple-growing region around the temple. For me, they carry a lot of childhood memories.

Lal Peda at Sankat Mochan Temple in Kashi

The famous Hanuman temple was built by Goswami Tulsidas ji, who is the author of not just Ramcharitmanas but also Hanuman Chalisa – the most chanted verses to Hanuman.

It is said that he saw Hanuman ji here and later built a temple.

The temple is dominated by monkeys.

There are two kinds of prasad that are very popular here – one is Besan Ke Laddu and the second is Lal Peda.

You can see a row of shops on either side of the road leading to the temple.

My favorite is Lal Peda – it has a unique taste of well-roasted milk.

Other popular pedas of course are Mathura Peda in Braj and Dharwad Peda in Karnataka.

Kadha Prasad at Gurudwaras

I grew up in Chandigarh and around. Visiting Gurudwaras was a part of our routine. As kids we looked forward to the Kadha Prasad.

The wheat halwa dripped in pure desi ghee tastes like heaven.

We would extend one hand and then another to receive an extra helping of Kadha.

Though the most famous prasad is at the Langar in Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, you get the blissful Kadha prasad at most Gurudwaras.

Somehow you can never get the same taste at home though the recipe is pretty common and ingredients limited.

Probably the taste of divine blessings gets added to it.

Tuesday Bundi at Hanuman Mandirs

In North India, visiting Hanuman temples on Tuesdays is a tradition with many families. We also visited as kids.

Huge piles of bright orange Bundi can be seen outside the Hanuman temples, especially in the evenings.

This is a weekly affair, and you hardly get any Bundi on the other six days of the week.

It tastes like Jalebi but comes in the form of small balls that melt in the mouth.

There are soft and crisp varieties, I like the latter but there are those who like soft ones.

As kids, we would typically buy a small packet from the shop outside, visit the temple and hand it to the Pujari ji.

He would put some in the common pool and return the rest to us and then give a small handful from the common pool to us as prasad.

We loved the prasad so much that we would try to get as much as possible.

I miss it big time in south India.

If I am in the North on a Tuesday, I still try to visit a Hanuman temple, and somewhere the kid inside me still craves the Bundi Temple Prasad.

Modak at Ganapatiphule

Modaks are a part of Ganapati Puja. Most of the time I have had them at Maharashtrian friends’ homes during Ganapati Utsava.

However, I found them being served at Ganapati Temple at Ganapatiphule on the Konkan coast of Maharashtra.

The temple though popular is usually not crowded, so you can easily get the Modak.

It is even served by the eateries around the temple.

Needless to say, it tastes heavenly.

Kanchipuram Idli at Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Kanchipuram is a divine city centered around the temple of Kanchi Kamakshi with Shiva Kanchi and Vishnu Kanchi in its folds.

Full of Kanchipuram Silk Sari shops and temples, its multi-grain Idli is a must-have delicacy in Kanchipuram.

It is served in almost all eateries but as temple prasad you get it at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple at the heart of Vishnu Kanchi.

I missed tasting it at the temple though I spent more than half a day there.

I did have it at various eateries though.

Thor at Nathdwara

Most Vishnu temples across the country have elaborate kitchens that prepare different meals for the deity who loves to eat.

At the Nathdwara Thakur Haveli the elaborate kitchen prepares several meals throughout the day for the young Srinathji using local vegetables and fruits.

The food changes with the weather just like it changes in our home kitchens.

What is unique in the prasad here is Thor a sweet dish made with Suji or Semolina and soaked in Chaashni or sugar syrup.

Thor is the specialty of Nathdwara though it is now available at select e-portals.

Bangles as Temple Prasad

At Devi temples, it is common to offer the Shringar for the Devi.

It typically involves clothes, be it a Sari or a Chunri, Bindi, Bangles, Haldi, Kumkum and jewelry.

At some temples, women also get a part of this shringar back.

I remember receiving red glass bangles at Nidhi Van in Vrindavan and at the Mahalakshmi temple in the premises of Jagannath Puri Temple.

They are my prized possessions and I wear them often.

Common Temple Prasad at Various Temples

Besides these specialties at specific temples, there are common prasads that you get in almost every temple.

Panchamrita or Charanamrita, sometimes also called Tirtha is the most common offering at temples.

You get it at any time you visit the temple, typically in your right hand.

In North India Peda and Laddus are common prasad in most temples. You see rows of Mithai shops selling them outside temples.

In South India, it is Payasam or the temple food that everyone looks forward to.

Puffed rice and Ilaichidana are common dry prasad to take home with you.

What makes temple prasad special is the devotion with which it is prepared, offered to the deity, and then to the devotee and the devotion with which it is received and eaten. It is an invisible thread that infuses the divine energy in the food we eat.

Incredible India: A look at 14 unique prasads offered in temples across the country

Prasad consecrated food that is offered to deity later served to devotees.

Mainly prasad is distributed in Hindu temples.

Being a Hindu majority country, one can find temples in almost every alleys and lane of India.

Every temple offers prasad aka parshad or prasadam to devotees without any discrimination.

Generally, Prasad is a consecrated food that is offered to the deity and is later distributed among the devotees.

Notably, some prominent temples in the country vary for their unique Prasad that is prepared and offered to the devotees.

Some of the temples also have historical stories attached to the choice of Prasad they distribute.

Below is the list of the unique Prasad offered by different temples across India :

Shri Banke Bihari in Vrindavan

Being the home for Lord Krishna, this temple provides two of the most favourite dishes of the deity.

One of them is Maakhan Mishri and another one is Peda.

Both of them are made with pure cow milk.

Besides, Maakhan Mishri is served in mini kulhad (earthen pot) that are handcrafted by local artisans.

Mata Vaishnao Devi, Katra in Jammu

Two types of prasad are offered in this temple.

One is the small packet of mishri.

The packet also consists of a small silver coin of deities embossed on it.

The second prasad that is available is a mix of puffed rice, dry apple, dry coconut, and elaichi seeds.

These items are packed in small eco-friendly jute bags.

Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati

The prasad offered in this temple comes in two types namely Angodak and Angobastra. These are considered as a fluid part of the deity’s body.

These holy water are obtained from the spring and given to masses as prasad.

Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati

Sri Vari Laddoo also called Tirupati Laddoo is offered to Lord Venkateswara as prasad. This is the most popular prasad in the temple located on the hill.

For 300 years, this prasad has been given to the deity.

The ingredients required to make this laddoo are ghee, sugar, oil, flour, cardamom, and dry fruits.

These laddoos have been given the GI tag under the GI Act of 1999.

Priests known as ‘Achakas’ prepare the laddoo in the temple.

Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the prasad offered here is the mix of chura (flattened rice), elaichi seeds, and peda.

Jagannath Temple in Puri

A meal of 56 items, known as Mahaprasad is offered to Lord Jagannath at the temple. The Mahaprasad or Mahabhog is divided into two types.

Sankudi Mahaprasad consists of savoury dishes while Sukhila Mahaprasad consists of only sweet dishes.

 Khabees Baba Temple in Sitapur

The prasad offered in this temple is liquor.

 Here no deity is worshipped, besides, there are no priests.

Historically, it is stated that the prasad is offered to the saint who lived 150 years back.

After offering the liquor to the saint, devotees can consume some portion of it as prasad.

Golden Temple in Amritsar

‘Kadha Prasad’ is the most popular prasad offered in the Golden Temple.

This item is made of flour, ghee, sugar, and water.

Apart from this, they also distribute langer, a meal that consists of roti, dal, rice, and sabzi.

This meal is available free at fixed hours in the temple.

Chinese Kali Temple in Kolkata

Dedicated to Maa Kali, this temple serves noodles, chop suey, and fried rice as prasad. Historically, it is said that 60 years ago, a Chinese migrant saw a dream of Maa Kali, after which with the help of localities he started building the temple.

Shrinathji Temple in Rajasthan

A unique prasad known as ‘Mathadi’ is served to Lord Shrinath.

The prasad is a type of deep-fried pastry, which is dipped in sugar syrup.

However, ‘Thor’, is the savoury variety that is also served to those who do not have sweet teeth.

Parassinikkadavu Temple in Kannur

This temple is famous for its variety of prasad offered to the deity.

The prasad includes fish, toddy, and bottles of liquor.

These items are offered to God first and then served to the devotees.

Apart from these, green gram and coconut pieces are also distributed.

​Mahadeva Temple, Mazhuvanchery in Thrissur, Kerala

To impart education to the needy, prasad that is offered here include DVDs, CDs, and textbooks.

Kaal Bhairav in Varanasi

Considered as one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the prasad offered here is wine.

Later, a part of it can be consumed by the masses in the name of God.

 Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple in Palani, Tamil Nadu

 Popularly known as ‘Palani Panchamirtham,’ the prasad is a mix of five items namely banana, jaggery, cow ghee, honey, and cardamom.

Along with these items, dates and diamond sugar candies are added.

This is the first prasad to get a GI tag in Tamil Nadu in 2019.

From Thekua To Kosambari: Six Types Of Prasad From Around India

India’s culinary diversity is accentuated by the multiple types of prasad that make their way into the hands of devotees, giving them a sense of satisfaction and the feeling that God is on their side.

Religion may be a social construct but faith is intrinsic.

Those who are religious hold both temples and prasad close to their heart, visiting for reasons of reverence and also to seek blessings.

Also called ‘naivedyam’ in Southern India, the Hindi word prasad translates to grace or offering.

Placed before deities and then distributed, prasad may be solid or liquid.

Besides its religious significance, different types of prasad are also an important part of regional Indian cuisine.

India’s culinary diversity is accentuated by the multiple types of prasad that make their way into the hands of devotees, giving them a sense of satisfaction and the feeling that God is on their side.

Here are six types of prasad from around India:

Thekua

With roots in both India and Nepal, thekua is a biscuit-like sweet treat.

It is popular in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, mainly offered during Chhath puja.

Thekua is made with wheat flour, chashni and ghee.

Cardamom may be used for added flavour.

Floral patterns are often engraved on top of thekua, and sometimes rice flour may be used instead of wheat flour.

Kada prasad

A halwa made with wheat flour, sugar and ghee, kada prasad is the centrepiece of the blessings that Sikhs receive when they visit gurudwaras.

It is believed that Guru Nanak blesses this prasad, generous portions of which are placed into the hands of worshippers.

Gurudawaras always offer kada prasad, irrespective of whether a devotee partakes in langar or not. 

Offered at the Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai and other temples across South India, sakkarai pongal is also called chakkara pongali in Telugu.

Households in South India prepare it for pongal or Makar Sankranti.

Sakkarai pongal is essentially a mixture of rice, ghee and jaggery, garnished with coconut, nuts and spices. 

Mahaprasad

The Jagannath Temple in Odisha is known both for its mahaprasad, an elaborate edible offering that consists of 56 items.

Ananda Bazaar, a food market in the temple grounds, sells sankudi mahaprasad and sukhila mahaprasad, both of which are very different. The former includes different types of rice and curries, while the latter includes sweetmeats. 

Tankaw toraani

Tankaw toraani is part of the 56 items that form the mahaprasad offered to Lord Jagannath.

It is a drink made using cooked rice, yogurt, water, ginger, green chillies, salt and curry leaves, and stored in earthen pots to keep it cool, especially during the summer.

The Ananda Bazaar sells tankaw toraani all year round. 

Kosambari

Kosambari is a kind of salad made with Bengal gram and green gram.

It may also use coconut, carrots and onions, and is seasoned with mustard seeds.

Originating in Karnataka, it is offered as prasad at temples and served during weddings and festivals in Southern India.

Rice may be added to the salad for a crunchy texture. 

Kinds of Prasad offered to different Gods

Prasad is a feeling towards God, let’s know which God we should offer what Prasad so that we get right virtue.

After worship or aarti, the substance that is distributed after Tulsikrit Jalamrit and Panchamrit is called ‘Prasad’.

At the time of worship, when any food item is presented to the Gods and Goddesses, then that item is distributed in the form of Prasad.

It is also called ‘Naivedya’.

Vishnu Bhog

Vishnuji likes kheer or semolina pudding very much. Kheer is made in many ways.

Must add raisins, finely chopped almonds, very little coconut shavings, cashews, pistachios, charoli, some ground makhanas, a cardamom for aroma, some saffron and lastly basil in the kheer.

Make it in the best way and then distribute it after offering it to Vishnuji.

Halwa has great importance in Indian society. Many types of halwa are made but semolina halwa is very dear to Vishnuji.

Mix almost all types of dry fruits in semolina pudding and make it in the best way and offer it to God.

Shiva Bhog

Shiva likes the offering of Bhang and Panchamrit. Bholenath is bathed with milk, curd, honey, sugar, ghee, water stream and offered hemp-dhatura, sandalwood, flowers, roli, clothes.

Revdi, Chironji and Mishri are also offered to Lord Shiva.

In the month of Shravan, keeping a fast of Lord Shiva and offering him milk apart from jaggery, gram and chironji fulfills all kinds of wishes.

Hanuman Bhog

Hanumanji likes halua, panch mewa, jaggery-made and besan laddoos or roth, betel leaf and saffron-rice very much.

Apart from this, some people also offer Imarti to Hanumanji.

Lakshmi Bhog

Lakshmiji has been considered the goddess of wealth.

Lakshmiji likes white and yellow sweets, saffron-rice very much.

Durga Bhog

Mother Durga is considered the goddess of power.

Durgaji likes kheer, malpua, sweet pudding, puranpoli, bananas, coconut and sweets.

Offering it to her daily on the occasion of Navratri fulfills all her wishes, especially Mataji likes all kinds of halua. Different kind of Maa durga swaroop likes different Prasad.

She likes Jeera rice, Kasaar and Kada Prasad also.

Saraswati Bhog

Mother Saraswati has been considered the goddess of knowledge.

Mother Saraswati likes milk, panchamrit, curd, butter, white sesame laddoos and paddy lava.

This should be offered to Saraswatiji in a temple, only then knowledge and ability will develop.

Ganesh Bhog

Ganesha likes the offering of Modak or Laddu. Many types of modaks are also made.

In Maharashtra, especially on the occasion of Ganesh Puja, different types of modaks are made in every household.

Apart from modaks, Ganesha also likes Motichoor laddoos.

Besan laddoos made with pure ghee are also liked by hime.

Apart from this, you can also offer Boondi laddoos to them.

Laddoos made of coconut, sesame and semolina are also offered to him.

Ram Bhog

Lord Shri Ram likes Kesar Bhaat, Kheer, Coriander Bhog etc.

Apart from this, he also likes to enjoy Kalakand, Barfi, Gulab Jamun.

Shri Krishna Bhog

Lord Shri Krishna likes butter and sugar candy very much.

Apart from this, they also like kheer, halua, puranpoli, laddoos and seviyan.

Even he likes 56 bhogs.

Kalika and Bhairav Bhog

Mata Kalika and Lord Bhairavnath enjoy almost the same bhog.

Halua, puri and liquor are their favorite indulgences.

Many offeres them non veg also as Bali in havan.

Apart from this, Imarti, Jalebi and 5 types of sweets are also offered.

Top 20 Unique Prasad In Temples In India

India is a religious country.

We have many religions, and each of them has their own religious and cultural practices.

People of different religions have faith in their respective God and the temples are considered highly respectable places, and so it their “prasad,” “Prashad,” or “Prasadam” (the sacred food that is offered to God and later distributed among the devotees in small quantities).

Some temples offer very distinctive Prasad. Here is a list of temples that offer different and unique prasad in India.

1. Jagannath Temple, Puri

“Mahaprasad,” which is commonly known as “Chappan (56) Bhog,” is offered to Lord.

It is made in earthen pots kept in firewood.

It is first delivered to Lord Jagannath and then to sibling deities and Maa Vimala.

Once it is provided to all the Gods, the prasad becomes “mahaprasad,” which is distributed among devotees.

2. Maitri Kripa Kalibari, Lucknow

In this Kali temple, chocolates, biscuits, cakes, wafers, cola, chips, and jelly are offered as Prasad.

During “Annakoot” (puja that is done a day after Diwali), all these items are offered to the goddess with other food items like grains, fruit etc.

A total of 151 items is offered here.

The chips, chocolates, jelly, etc., are later distributed among kids. This practice is unique to this temple.

3. Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain

In this temple, liquor is offered to the deity as prasad.

This practice is a part of five tantric ritual offerings known as “Panchamakara.”

The liquor bottle is sold by vendors outside the temple, along with flowers and coconuts.

The devotees can offer it to the deity and later consume it as prasad.

4. Kamakhya Devi Temple, Assam

According to the legend, this temple has the mythological womb of Devi Sati.

During the annual fair festival of Ambubachi, the temple is closed for three days, and on the 4^th day, a moist red piece of cloth, which has the menstrual fluid of Goddess Kamakhya, is distributed among devotees.

This piece of fabric is considered super auspicious in the Hindu religion.

5. Mahadeva Temple, Mazhuvanchery, Thrissur

You won’t find any other prasad more unique and valuable than this.

Here, the prasad given to devotees consists of CDs, DVDs, informative brochures, study, and writing materials.

According to the temple trust, imparting knowledge to the needy is the best form of prasad.

6. Chinese Kali Temple, Kolkata

It may sound like a normal Kali Temple but it is not! The unique thing about this temple is that, unlike any other temple, it distributes Chinese foods to its devotees as prasad. Noodles, chop Suey, and fried rice are the main dishes offered as prasad here.

This is a unique practice that has been continued here for decades.

7. Azhagar Kovil, Tamil Nadu

This temple is also known as Alagar Temple, which is located 21 km away from Madurai. It offers “dosai” (Dosa is called Dosai in South India, which is the correct term for Dosa!) as prasad.

Other than Dosai, the prasad includes Tamarind Rice, Lemon Rice, and a special Pongal sweet loaded with jaggery, cardamom, and ghee.

8. Sri Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati

The prasad of this temple is very popular throughout the country.

It offers Laddoos called Sri Vari Laddoo or Tirupati Laddoo.

They are huge and are unique to the place.

These Laddoos have been offered to deites for the last 300 years.

They have been given a GI tag. People can also buy these Laddoos.

“Achaka” are the priests who prepare these Laddoos.

9. Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Vrindavan

Here, the first “Bhog,” (prasad that is offered to God) is called the “Bal Bhog” which consists of Kachori, aloo ki sabzi, and besan ke laddoo.

Another prasad offered is Makhan mishri (Makhan is butter, and mishri is rock sugar).

It is offered along with Peda (a sweet dish).

Makhan mishri is offered in Kulhad (clay cup).

The prasad here is made from pure cow milk.

10. Shrinathji Temple, Rajasthan

Unlike sweets and Laddoos, this temple offers Mathadi. Mathadi is a kind of deep-fried pastry that is dipped in sugar syrup.

It is a special kind of prasad that is wholesome to eat.

11. Vaishno Devi Temple, Katra

Vaishno Devi temple offers prasad in two small eco-friendly jute bags.

The first bag contains puffed rice, dried apples, dry coconut, and elaichi (cardamom) seeds.

The second one has mishri and a silver coin with deities embossed on it.

It is given to all devotees in “bhaint” (gift).

12. Khabees Baba Temple, Uttar Pradesh

Liquor is offered as prasad in this temple.

This temple is dedicated to Khabees Baba, a saint who lived 150 years ago.

It is said that he loved liquor and whatever he said after consuming it, came to be true.

 The prasad of liquor can be consumed by devotees after offering it to Khabees Baba.

13. Karni Mata Mandir, Bikaner

This temple is famous for its rats.

It is estimated that more than 25,000 rats live in this temple.

The prasad offered by the devotees is first provided to rats and then to the deity.

Even the prasad that devotees receive from the temple is defiled by rats.

It is said that prasad which contains the rat’s saliva brings good luck.

14. Vimala Temple, Puri

Vimala or Bimala temple is situated in the temple complex of Jagannath Puri temple. Here, during Durga Puja every year, the deity is offered meat of goat, sacrificed in the temple complex.

Along with this, fish is also provided which is caught from the temple tank.

The prasad offered to the deity is later on distributed among the devotees.

15. Parassinikkadavu Temple, Kannur

In this temple, the deity is offered fish, liquor, and toddy (a natural drink made from coconuts that contain minuscule amount of liquor) as prasad.

It is served after worshipping the deity and later distributed among the devotees.

Coconut pieces and green gram is also distributed.

16. Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple

In Sabarimala Temple, devotees are offered Appam and Aravana Payasam as prasad. These dishes are from Kerala.

Appam is a kind of pancake made from raw rice, dry yeast, coconut milk, and sugar.

Aravana Payasam is a kind of kheer made from red rice, jaggery, and coconut.

It is a unique prasad offered in this temple.

17. Ganpatipule Temple, Maharashtra

Here the prasad is kind of unique from other temples.

The deity is offered a full meal consisting of Khichdi, pickle, papad, and boondi during the afternoon.

The evening “bhog” also includes masala rice.

This prasad is a treat for devotees who come here.

18. Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Tamil Nadu

The prasad offered here is known as “Palani Panchamirtham.”

It is a kind of jam made from 5 items, mainly banana, cow ghee, jaggery, cardamom, and honey.

Dates are also added to it.

This prasad is one of its kind in India.

19. Golden Temple, Amritsar

The prasad offered here is “Kadha prasad” which is similar to halwa.

It is made from flour, sugar, water, and ghee.

Apart from this, langar (community kitchen) also takes place here, which feeds lakhs of people every day.

It is a simple meal of Dal, Roti, Sabzi, and rice.

20. Gogamedi Temple, Rajasthan

This temple is dedicated to Gogaji, a great warrior.

The prasad is offered here in the form of onions and lentils.

Every devotee that comes here offers at least 250gms of onions and lentils to the deity.

It has been a tradition of offering onions to pay tribute to the great warrior.

20 Famous Temple Prasad From Across India

Temples in Hinduism are centres of religious worship and hubs of social interaction.

The deities are worshipped ritualistically and the temple prasad forms a key element of the worship.

Devotees flock to temples to pray and worship and partake of the temple prasad, which is believed to be the fruit of their worship and considered highly sacred.

The food offering to the temple deities is known as Naivedya or Naivedyam, and after it has been offered to the deity, it becomes Prasad or Prasada or Prasadam and is distributed to the devotees in big and small temples across India.

Many of the temple prasads are as famous if not more, than the temples themselves.

Temple Prasad – Consecrated Food Offerings

The preparation of prasad, whether in temples or in homes during festivals or other religious events adheres to a strict code of conduct.

It is prepared with the utmost cleanliness and purity, both physically and mentally.

Prasad is mostly vegetarian and cooked without garlic or onion.

Temple Prasad has a special flavour and taste which is unique and different from ordinary food, it is as if it has been infused with the blessings of divinity.

20 Famous Temple Prasad From Across India

The plain Sooji Ka Halwa transcends the physical frame and assumes the status of ambrosia when it is made as Prasad for Satyanarayana Pooja.

The famous GI-Tagged Tirupati Laddu is infused with a sweetness that borders on the divine, and the food served in the Langars of countless Gurudwaras across the country mesmerizes devotees with a taste that can only be called heavenly.

We invite you to join us on a temple crawl that gives us an immersive experience of the tantalizing aroma and flavour of 20 famous temple prasad from across India.

Tirupati Balaji Prasad – Temple Prasad

Tirupati Balaji temple draws millions from across the globe. People throng the temple for a few seconds for darshan of Lord Balaji in all his splendour.

They queue up for hours and even days for those few seconds of bliss, when they feel connected with divinity.

Tirupati is of course one of the richest temples in the world and this fact is well known.

It is also famous for its Laddus that have now earned a GI (Geographical Indication) tag.

The Tirupati Laddus are as much in demand as the darshan of Lord Balaji.

The laddus are sold at designated counters in Thirumala, and the number of Laddus that you can buy depends on how many darshan tickets you have.

In addition to Laddus, Tirupati Prasadam like Puliyogare (Tamarind Rice), Curd Rice, and Chitranna (Lemon Rice), are distributed freely to the temple visitors.

In addition, if you are doing special sevas like Kalyanotsavam at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple in Thirumala, you are given large quantities of special prasad.

Free meals are also served to visitors as Annaprasadam.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple Prasad

The temple of Sai Baba in Shirdi, Maharashtra, is another of India’s most revered temples.

Dedicated to the saint who was known for his compassion towards all living beings, the Shirdi Sai Baba temple draws around 80,000 faithful devotees every day to its fold.

People are drawn like puppets on a string to the temple and arrive at the feet of Baba, full of faith and devotion.

Much in demand is the Shirdi Sai Baba prasad which is not in the form of food but is Udi or ash.

The Udi is the ash from a sacred fire that Baba kept burning forever.

The fire still burns, making sacred Udi which is hope and salvation for millions.

The Udi is believed to have miraculous powers.

It can be applied on the forehead and can also be consumed.

Apart from the famous Udi of Shirdi, other prasad at Shirdi includes dry fruits, Revdi, and Makhana.

Free food is served to devotees at the Shri Sai Prasadalaya, a large dining area with a capacity to seat 3,500 devotees.

Food is prepared in a kitchen which is said to be the World’s largest Solar-Powered Free Food Kitchen.

The meal served includes Rice, Dal, Chapatis, vegetables, and rice.

Jagannath Temple Prasad – Mandir Prasad

The ancient and historic temple of Jagannath in Puri, Odisha, is well known.

It is one of the Char Dhams designated by Adi Shankaracharya which also has one of the four Amnaya Mathas established by him.

Jagannath temple has achieved global recognition for its spectacular Rath Yatra.

Equally famous is the temple prasad associated with Jagannath Puri.

In fact among the many unexplained mysteries of Jagannath Puri is the one associated with the food that is cooked in the temple kitchens.

Jagannath temple is one of the Indian temples that offer unique prasads.

Did you know that the quantity of food cooked in the kitchen of the Jagannath Puri temple is the same on any day, and it is always exact, in spite of the variance in daily visitors between 2,000 to 20,000?

The Naivedya or offering to the deities in the Jagannath temple consists of 56 (Chappan) food items.

This is famous everywhere as Chappan Bhog. After the offering to the deities, the offering assumes the form of Mahaprasad for the devotees.

The Mahaprasad of Jagannath Puri Temple is sold in the temple at the Anand Bazar and is of two categories, namely Sankudi consisting of food items like rice, ghee rice, dal, different curries, etc.

The other category is Shukhila which consists of dry sweets.

The Mahaprasad of Jagannath Puri temple is treated as God incarnate, and considered as, “Anna Brahma.”

Golden Temple Kada Prasad – Temple Prasad

The Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab, India, is one of the holiest shrines of the Sikhs. It is however visited by people of all religions and is an ocean of serenity and harmony. The divine ambience of the temple draws the devout in droves to the temple.

Equally compelling is the Kada Prasad or Karah Prasad which is served to all visitors to the temple.

Kada Prasad is a standard offering and prasad is served in different Gurudwaras.

It is a preparation of flour and is cooked according to a prescribed method of making. Another important Prasad of Amritsar is the free food served in the Langar of the Golden Temple, which too is blessed by the Guru and a form of Prasad.

Mata Vaishno Devi Prasad Vaishno Devi Ka Prasad

The Mata Vaishno Devi temple which is one of the 108 Shakti peeths, is a much-visited spiritual destination in Jammu, India.

Devotees trek up the hill to have a glimpse of the deity and return back with the treasured prasad of the Goddess.

Prasad can be obtained from the designated counter located outside the exit tunnel and just beyond Amrit Kund.

The edible prasad is in the form of Mishri Prasad.

Prasad is given in pouches that contain Mishri, and a consecrated coin with an image of the Holy Pindis – the deity inside the sanctum of the temple.

You can also get a special prasad known as Khazaana Prashad which consists of special coins.

It is believed that these coins bring prosperity and good luck and should be kept inside cash boxes or places of worship in homes or offices.

Other prasad items are in the form of sacred Chunnis and Cholas that have adorned the deities.

Mahakaleshwar Prasad – Mandir Ka Prasad

The famous Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is a Shiva temple where one of the 12 Jyotirlingas is located.

The prasad that is available at the Mahakal Ujjain temple is in the form of Laddus, that are in high demand.

The laddus can be bought in the temple counters.

Somnath Temple Prasad

The Somnath Shiva temple in Somnath, Gujarat, is believed to be the oldest of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas.

Located near Junagadh, the temple is one of the most sacred pilgrim destinations in India.

Somnath temple prasad consists of Mava Chikki, Peanut Chikki, and Laddu.

Somnath Jyotirlinga

When in Somnath, you can also visit the famous Bhalka Tirth temple which is the place where the end of  Krishna Avatar was initiated,

 

Ananta Vasudeva Temple Prasad

The Prasad in temples across India is as varied as the cultural diversity of the country. The Ananta Vasudeva Temple is a temple to Vishnu located in Bhubaneshwar, the capital of Odisha, in the 13th century.

The temple resembles the Jagannath temple in Puri in many ways, including the bhog or Naivedya to the deity which is available as Prasad to devotees after consecration.

The Ananta Vasudeva temple Prasad includes food items like Arna (a rice preparation similar to Khichdi), Dalma, Dali, Besara, Saga, Pachedi, and Kheer, among others.

Shreenathji Prasad – Shrinathji Temple, Rajasthan

The famous Shreenathji Temple of Nathdwara, Rajasthan is an important destination on the Krishna circuit of India.

It is a temple where Krishna is worshipped as a seven-year-old boy lifting the Govardhan mountain on his little finger.

The Shreenathji temple prasad is one of the unique prasad in temples across India.

It is known as Saagar or Sagar Prasad and consists of Badam Chakki, which is made of almonds, sugar, and clarified butter or Ghee.

Other food items available as prasad of Shreenathji include Sev Laddu, Mesur (Mysore Pak), Khaja, Thor, Mohanthal, etc.

Siddhivinayak Temple Prasad

The Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai enjoys an iconic status.

From students to business tycoons, and from cine stars to sports celebrities, everyone makes the pilgrimage to this famous temple for the darshan and grace of Shri Siddhivinayak.

It is one of the most popular Ganesh temples in the country.

The famous temple prasad of Siddhivinayak is Laddu.

Other items include lockets of Siddhivinayak and Ganesh Stotra booklet.

For Live Darshan of Siddhivinakay

Ganapatipule Temple Prasad

Ganapatipule temple is located on the western coastline near the town of Ratnagiri in the state of Maharashtra.

It is one of the important Ganesh temples that dot the coastline along the Arabian Sea, stretching from Maharashtra to Karnataka, and Kerala.

Ganapatipule temple is known for its famous Khichdi Prasad which is served in the afternoon to devotees.

The Khichdi is offered to the deity and then served as Prasad. The Khichdi Prasad is available at the temple counters at a very nominal cost.

Dwarkadhish Temple Prasad

Dwarka is famous as the mythological kingdom of Krishna.

Located on the coast of Gujarat, it is home to many temples including the Rukmini Devi temple and the Nageshwar Jyotirling temple.

However, its main claim to fame is the Shree Dwarkadhish temple.

Bhog is offered to the deity about 11 times a day.

The consecrated offerings are then available to devotees in the form of Prasad.

The Prasad can be bought from the counter within the temple complex.

Prasad usually consists of items like Petha, Mathri, Mohanthal, and other sweets.

Shri Banke Bihari, Vrindavan – Mandir Prasad

The famous Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan, near Mathura, is a historic site that attracts lakhs of devotees.

The deity of the temple is a combined form of Radha and Krishna which is believed to have been manifested by Swami Haridas.

The famous prasad of Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan is Pedha and Maakhan Mishri. A unique prasad of Banke Bihari temple is the Bal Bhog which is offered to the deity in the morning and then distributed as prasad.

This includes Kachori, Pedha, and Laddu.

Baidyanath Temple, Deoghar – Temple Prasad

Baidyanath Deoghar

The Baidyanath temple of Deoghar in the state of Jharkhand, India, is a sacred Shiva temple and one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples.

It is also known as Baba Baidyanath Dham.

The special prasad of Baidyanath temple is Pedha, which devotees can buy at the temple.

Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Palani – Temple Prasad

The Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple is an ancient and sacred temple to Murugan, the brother of Ganesh.

He is also known as Karthikeya and Subrahmanya.

According to legend, after Murugan lost in a challenge to brother Ganesh, he decided to stay as a hermit on Palani Hill in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu, India.

The idol of Murugan in the temple is believed to have been made and consecrated by the Sidda saint Bogar.

It is said that he made the idol using 9 different elements containing 9 different poisons known as Navapashanam.

Hence the holy water used to do abhishekam to the idol and given as Tirtha to devotees is believed to be a master antidote, a panacea for all illnesses.

The famous prasad of Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple is the Palani Panchamritam which has a GI (Geographical Information) tag.

The Panchamritam is a concoction containing bananas, cardamom, jaggery, cow ghee, and honey.

Guruvayur Temple Prasad

The revered temple of Guruvayurappan in Guruvayur, Kerala, is well known.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the deity is an idol of Vishnu in the form which was revealed to Devaki and Vasudev at the time of the birth of Krishna.

The prasad of Guruvayur temple consists of the Bhog or Naivedya to the deity at different times of the day.

Ahassu is a prasad which is an assortment of different prasads of the day and includes items like Appam, Adda, Avil, Kalabham, and more.

Sankat Mochan Temple Prasad – Kashi

The Sankat Mochan temple is a 16th-century temple dedicated to Hanuman that stands near the banks of the Assi river in Kashi, also referred to as Varanasi, or Benares, in Uttar Pradesh, India.

The temple was established by the Hindu saint and poet, Tulsidas. It is believed that the temple was built at the very spot where Tulsidas had a vision of Hanuman.

The special prasad of Sankat Mochan temple in Kashi is much sought after and relished by devotees.

It is in the form of Besan Laddos, which can be procured at the temple premises.

Ayyappa Temple Sabarimala – Mandir Prasad

The Sabarimala temple is famous as one of the largest annual pilgrimage centres in the world.

It is estimated that the temple sees between 10 to 15 million visitors every year.

The temple of Sabarimala is located on a hill of the same name within the Periyar Tiger Reserve, in the state of Kerala, India.

The temple is dedicated to Ayyappa who is believed to be the son of Vishnu and Shiva.

The famous Prasadam of Sabarimala Ayyappa temple consists of Aravana Payasam which is made from rice, milk, and jaggery.

Another item of prasad at the Sabarimala temple is Appam which is made from rice batter and coconut milk.

It is interesting to note that the rice used for the preparation of the Prasadam at the Sabarimala temple comes from the Chettikulangara Sree Bhagavathi Temple located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala.

ISKCON Temple Prasad ISKCON Prasad

The International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) is a global organization, a part of the Hare Krishna movement, and has Krishna temples across India and the world.

Apart from the temples, the organization also runs numerous community projects and vegetarian restaurants.

The different ISKCON temples in India and abroad are known for the Prasad that they serve visitors.

Many of the temples serve free food to people in the form of Nitya Annadana.

Apart from this various other food items can purchased from the temple counters.

Ambaji Prasad

Ambaji in the Sabarkantha district of Gujarat, India, is well known for its Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Temple, one of the sacred Shaktipeeths.

Mohanthal has been the traditional Prasad associated with the temple.

However, recently the authorities changed the prasad to Chikki, leading to what is termed as the Prasad controversy.

Many political parties and religious organizations have been protesting against the change.

Trimbakeshwar Prasad

The Shri Trimbakeshwar Shiva temple in the Nashik district of Maharashtra is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples.

It is located about 28 kilometres from the city of Nashik.

The Prasad of Trimbakeshwar temple includes dry items like dry fruits and Mishri (Sugar Candy).

 Sri Trimbakeshwar Jyotirling.

Temple Prasad Online – Temple Prasadam Online

One of the advantages of technology is that it can be harnessed towards your spiritual emancipation.

Be it online darshan of your favourite temple deities or ordering online prasad from the temples that you have reposed faith in.

There are many sites that offer temple prasad online from temples across India.

However, please check the credentials and authenticity of the site from which you order.

It is best to order prasad online from the official temple websites wherever the facility is available.

 9 Forms Of Durga And The Special Prasad Offered To Them

Navratri : Here are the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga that are worshiped on each day of Navratri and the bhog or prasad that is specially prepared for them to seek their blessings.

‘Navratri’ in Sanskrit translates to ‘nine nights’.

Indians all across the world celebrate these nine nights with full fervor and great enthusiasm.

These nine nights of festivities are marked with ritualistic fasting, poojas while adopting a calm and meditative lifestyle.

This Hindu festival is dedicated to Goddess Durga and her 9 avatars.

On each of these nine days, Hindus worship the nine different manifestation of Durga or Shakti.

The ‘Nav Durga’ or the ‘Nine Forms of Durga’ are pleased with special offerings and prayers.

The significance of Nav Durga is narrated and reiterated in every Hindu household especially during the Navratris as this is the time when Goddess Durga descends from the heaven to bless her beloved devotees.

1. Goddess Shailputri
The first manifestation of Durga is Goddess Shailputri.

According to scriptures, she holds a trishul and a lotus in her hands, and rides a bull called Nandi.

As per Shivpurana, Goddess Shailputri in her previous birth was born to Daksha Prajapati, and was named ‘Sati’.

Deeply devoted to Lord Shiva ever since her childhood, Sati meditated earnestly to beget Lord Shiva as her consort.

Lord Shiva bestowed upon her the desired boon and accepted her as her consort.

The union was not accepted well by Sati’s father Daksha Prajapati, who insulted Shiva by not inviting him in one of his special gatherings.

Infuriated upon the humiliation meted out to her husband, Sati immolated herself and sacrificed her life in honour of her husband.

In her next birth Sati was born as a daughter to Himalaya, the Lord of Mountains and thus, was called Shailputri.

Sailputri is also worshiped as Parvati or Hemvati.

The first day of Navratra is dedicated to worshiping Shailputri.

Devotees offer pure desi ghee on the foot of Shailputri.

An offering of pure ghee is said to bless the devotee with a life free of diseases and illness. 

2. Goddess Brahmacharini

The second day of Navratri bhog is dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini.

She is depicted as a monastic goddess in Hindu scriptures, two-armed, clad in white and holding a rudraksh mala and a sacred Kamandalu.

Her stance is of utmost piety and devotion.

Her meditative form is related to the severe penance undertaken by Sati and Parvati in their respective births to attain Lord Shiva as their beloved consort. She is also known as Tapasyacharini.

It is believed that when Parvati was engaged in her deep meditation to please Lord Shiva, she was reduced to a mere skeleton.

Her austere penance gained her the name of Bharahmacharini by all the devtas and Gods who were awestruck by her reverence.

Worshiping this form of Shakti is known to invoke the spirit of penance, renunciation, virtue and nobility. 

Goddess Brahmacharini is a lover of simple food and offerings.

Devotees serve a bhog of sugar and fruits to Goddess Brahmacharini. 

3. Goddess Chandraghanta

The third manifestation of Durga is Goddess Chandraghanta.

She is depicted as a fierce 10-armed Goddess, roaring in anger. 

Chandraghanta is worshiped on the third day of Navratri.

She has a golden complexion and on her forehead she wears a crescent moon, which is why she is called Chandraghanta by her devotees.

According to scriptures during a great battle between gods and the demons, the sound vibrations produced by her ghanta (bell) took the lives of many wicked enemies.

She rides on a lion and is believed to destroy all evil and wicked.

The ferocious Goddess is pleased by offering milk, sweets or kheer.

4. Goddess Kushmanda
On the fourth day of Navratri, Goddess Kushmanda is worshipped.

The name Kushmanda is made of three other words ‘Ku’ (little), ‘Ushma’ (warmth or energy) and ‘Amnda’ (egg) which means the one who created the universe as the “Little Cosmic Egg” with energy and warmth.

According to Hindu scriptures, the universe was a dark space and it was Goddess Kushmanda who produced the Cosmic Egg with her smile.

Devotees worship the Goddess by observing fasts and offering Malpua as bhog. 

5. Goddess Skandmata

The fifth manifestation of Durga is Skandmata who is worshiped on the fifth day of the Navratri also known as Panchami.

Goddess Skandamata is depicted as a four-armed deity, who carries a lotus in two of her arms with a Kamandalu and a bell.

She is also seen carrying little Kartikay on her lap.

Kartikay is also known as Skanda, hence giving the goddess the name of Skandamata.

Her posture is calm and serene.

She is seated on a lotus, but a lion is also her vehicle. 

A bhog of bananas is offered to the goddess and it is said to keep the devotees in good health. 

6. Goddess Katyayani 

Worshiped on the sixth day (Shashti) of Navratris, Goddess Katyayani is a form of Shakti who is depicted as having four arms, and carrying a sword.

She rides a lion, and can be pleased with true devotion and piety.

She is the daughter of Sage Katyayan. Devotees offer honey as prasad to Goddess Katyayani.

Her blessings fill their lives with sweetness and help them get rid of bitter troubles.

7. Goddess Kaalratri

Goddess Kaalratri is worshiped on the seventh day of Navratris. According to the Hindu scriptures, Goddess Kaalratri is etched as a four-armed deity who rides a donkey.

She carries a sword, a trident and a noose.

She is the fierce form of Durga, dark and ferocious in appearance.

She possesses three eyes on her forehead that are known to contain the entire universe.

She breathes fierce flames of fire, and lustrous rays emanate from her.

Fierce on the outside, Kaalratri bestows her true devotees protection from evil-powers and spirits.

Devotees offer jaggery or sweets made with jaggery. The prasad is also given to Brahmins along with Dakshina. 

8. Goddess Mahagauri

Durga Asthami or the eight day of Navratris is dedicated to Goddess Mahagauri.

As per the scriptures, Mahagauri worshiped as the four-armed deity who rides on a bull or a white elephant.

She carries a trishul and a damru.

When Parvati decided to go on an austere penance to beget Lord Shiva as her consort, she renounced all comforts and lived in a forest for deep meditation.

Her meditation continued for several years – braving heat, cold, rain, and terrible storms.

Lord Shiva, impressed by her deep penance, appeared before her and showered the holy water of the Ganga over her.

The Gangajal washed off all the dirt.

She regained her natural beauty, and came to be known as Mahagauri.

Goddess Mahagauri  is offered coconut as bhog by devotees.

It is widely believed that donating coconuts to the Brahmans on Ashtami, blesses a childless couple with a child.

9. Goddess Siddhidatri

Worshiped on the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidhatri is projected as a four-armed deity sitting calmly on a lotus. She also holds a lotus, mace, discus and a book.

This form of Shakti signifies the ushering of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.

Siddhi in Sanskrit translates to accomplishment.

Thus, Goddess Siddhidhatri signifies perfection. 

On the ninth day of Navrartris, devotees observe a fast and offer til or sesame seeds as bhog.

This is believed to protect the devotee and his family from unfortunate mishaps.

9. Goddess Siddhidatri

Worshiped on the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidhatri is projected as a four-armed deity sitting calmly on a lotus. She also holds a lotus, mace, discus and a book.

This form of Shakti signifies the ushering of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.

Siddhi in Sanskrit translates to accomplishment.

Thus, Goddess Siddhidhatri signifies perfection. 

On the ninth day of Navrartris, devotees observe a fast and offer til or sesame seeds as bhog.

This is believed to protect the devotee and his family from unfortunate mishaps.

9. Goddess Siddhidatri

Worshiped on the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidhatri is projected as a four-armed deity sitting calmly on a lotus.

She also holds a lotus, mace, discus and a book.

This form of Shakti signifies the ushering of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.

Siddhi in Sanskrit translates to accomplishment.

Thus, Goddess Siddhidhatri signifies perfection. 

On the ninth day of Navrartris, devotees observe a fast and offer til or sesame seeds as bhog.

This is believed to protect the devotee and his family from unfortunate mishaps.

9. Goddess Siddhidatri

Worshiped on the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidhatri is projected as a four-armed deity sitting calmly on a lotus.

She also holds a lotus, mace, discus and a book.

This form of Shakti signifies the ushering of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.

Siddhi in Sanskrit translates to accomplishment.

Thus, Goddess Siddhidhatri signifies perfection. On the ninth day of Navrartris, devotees observe a fast and offer til or sesame seeds as bhog.

This is believed to protect the devotee and his family from unfortunate mishaps. 9. Goddess Siddhidatri

Worshiped on the ninth day, Goddess Siddhidhatri is projected as a four-armed deity sitting calmly on a lotus.

She also holds a lotus, mace, discus and a book.

This form of Shakti signifies the ushering of knowledge and wisdom over ignorance.

Siddhi in Sanskrit translates to accomplishment.

Thus, Goddess Siddhidhatri signifies perfection.

On the ninth day of Navrartris, devotees observe a fast and offer til or sesame seeds as bhog.

This is believed to protect the devotee and his family from unfortunate mishaps.

The Legend Behind Mahaprasad and Nirmalya of Jagannath Temple in Puri

Everybody knows that when the ‘Prasad’, cooked in the temple of Lord Jagannath is offered to Goddess Bimala it becomes ‘Mahaprasad’.

What is the eagerness of devotees of Lord Jagannath to get this Mahaprasad waiting hours long to get it in the temple of Puri? By taking Mahaprasad, they feel that they have earned ‘Punya’.

Even the dried Mahaprasad named as ‘Nirmalya’ is in great demand.

The people of Orissa preserve it to take even an iota of Nirmalya after performing daily Puja.

Even in Orissa household it is required at the time of Nirbandha or (marriage negotiation).

Even the bride and bridegrooms promise by holding Nirmalya that they will stick to this negotiation and not to betray each other.

Moreover at the time of death, the Nirmalya and holy basil (Tulsi) with water is poured in the tongue and throat of the imminent deceased persons with the belief that by taking these items after their death their soul will remain in peace and there will be no ‘Jamadanda’ (Punishment) of the Belzibup.

This is primarily the Hindu conviction.

There is a legend behind Mahaprasad.

It is in ‘Tretaya’, that after beheading Ravana the ten-faced monster in Srilanka Lord Ramachandra, Laxman and others had just returned to Ayodha and the Prajas (subjects) were eulogising their heroic deeds.

It was Urmila, the consort of Lord Laxman who was silently listening to the great happenings.

All were unanimous that Laxmana was instrumental in killing Indrajit.

All were discussing that Indrajit was so powerful and got boon that only that person who has not taken food for fourteen years constantly and who has not slept for fourteen years uninterruptedly can kill Indrajit.

There was a meeting inside the palace in the evening time to know the truth behind this matter.

Lord Rama questioned to Laxman that, Oh Laxman you have not taken food for continuous fourteen years, and what happened to those food packets, which I had given you at Panchabati during our stay ? Laxman patiently replied, Oh Lord, I have kept all those fruits in hole of Sami Tree at Panchabati. In order to ascertain the authenticity Lord Rama said, Oh Hanuman you go to Panchabati and bring back those food packets, which have been preserved in the hole of ‘Sami Tree’.

Lord Hanuman developed enigma on this matter.

He thought, Lord is aware of my strength.

He knows that I had brought the Gandhamardana in one hand, when Laxman was unconscious, the arrow of Indrajit.

He became hesitant to bring those food packets, but at last he performed journey from Ayodhya to Sami Tree at Panchabati.

Hanuman saw that those food packets have been kept intact but when he attempted to lift those food packets he could not lift and at last returned to Ayodhya and with humble words told his master, that he could not lift those food packets.

Lord Rama could know that due to Hanumana’s ego that he could not lift those food packets.

At last Laxman said, Oh ! Respected brother, I will fetch those fruits from Panchabati.

Laxman with his powerful arrow could bring back those food packets and all were accumulated in front of Lord Rama.

Lord Rama was surprised and asked Hanuman to ascertain that whether the food items supplied to Laxmana for fourteen years have been kept intact or not ? Hanuman counted and informed that seven packets were not available.

Lord Rama was eager to know from Laxman about those missing packets.

Laxman most humbly replied, Oh my dear respected brother and Lord ! I am narrating the mistery behind it.

Laxman said that when you and I had listened the news of death of our dearest father, Dasaratha in the forest you had not supplied me, the food on that very day.

When we got the news that Ravana has kidnapped Sita from Panchabati on that day you did not supply the food packet.

Then it was on third occasion when Mahi Ravana took both of us to Patala to offer sacrifice before Lankeswari on that day also we were in fast and took no food.

On fourth occasion, when I became unconscious, due to arrow hitting of Indrajit I was not in a state to take food.

On the day when Indrajit was beheaded had not taken food for fifth time.

It was on the sixth occasion that when you beheaded Ravana you did not take any food. You had committed Brahmahatya as Ravana was a Brahmin and he was the son of Bisrarba Rishi.

Lastly, when there was national mourning due to death of Ravana in Sri Lanka on the next day we joined the mourning and left Lanka without taking any food.

Lord Rama was overwhelmed with the supreme sacrifice, dedication and renunciation of Laxman that Laxmana’s Bairagya (renunciation) is par excellence.

Then he praised the supreme tyaga (sacrifice)of Urmila, that how she spent fourteen years without Laxman. ‘

I had gone to fourteen years exile with my consort Sita. See such a wife who had made supreme sacrifice.

She had eagerly waited the return of Laxman for fourteen years.’

‘All praise goes to Urmila’, Lord Rama told. ‘

In Ayodhya we have got three thrones, one for me, one for Sita and another throne for Laxman.

I order to-day that the fourth throne will be installed for Urmila’, said Rama. Urmila with folded hands told Rama, that ‘I have no desire for any throne.

I may be given the opportunity to serve you.

I have no aspiration.’

Then Rama was pleased and told Urmila, to seek for the boon as she wants.

Then humble Urmila with folded hands said that if you want to grant me any boon, then please grant that in the ages to come there will be neither any temple for me, nor I will be worshipped on any throne.

I want to become an incense stick by which I will give fragrance to you all.

I will be at your lotus feet for ages to come as Nivedita.

Lord Rama was so pleased and over whelmed with such devotion of Urmila that, he uttered, ‘Oh Urmila’ ! I grant you this boon that in the Iron Age (Kalikala) when I will be worshipped at Puri Temple, Goddess Laxmi will not be installed by my side.

Laxman in Tretaya has become my younger brother and in Kalikala he will be elder brother Balabhadra.

You will be Mahaprasad and by your fragrance you will spread the flavour and will be worshipped.

Any Prasad which will be offered to me will be offered to Goddess Bimala and then it will be Mahaprasad and will be taken as Prasad by devotees.

You will remain as Mahaprasad and Nirmalya for years to come.

Devotees will worship you and they will earn Punya for you, So Tretaya’s Urmila is the Bimala in Kalikala. Glory to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra and Bimala.

Lord Rama further said, ‘In Kaliyuga, you will be worshipped as Annabrahma’.

Urmila further prayed, ‘When you will be on Ratna Singhasana I will come in Bay of Bengal as a wave, the ripple (Urmi) to touch your golden feet.

Lord Rama granting this boon and said ‘Oh Urmila ! Your selfless love and sacrifice is unparalleled and par excellence; it will be immortalized forever.’

What is the Symbolism of the Coconuts in Hinduism?

The humble coconut, one of the hardest fruits growing in sandy soil, requiring little water or maintenance.

In Hindi it is known as “Nariyal” which translate literally as, “fruit containing water”.

In Sanskrit it is known as “Sirphal” which means “God’s fruit”.

One of the most common offerings in a temple is a coconut.

It is also offered on occasions like weddings, festivals, the use of a new vehicle or home.

The coconut is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. 

Every auspicious occasion begins with the breaking of the coconut.

It is regarded as a symbol of Lord Ganesh who removes obstacles and helps us to succeed in any tasks we embark on.

It is said that the Sage Vishvamitra created the coconut.

Its hard outer shell inspires us to work hard to achieve success.

Coconut and coconut water are well known for their health benefits. 

It is used for food, Ayurveda and medicine.

It is a rich source of Vitamins C, B and E and the minerals calcium, iron and phosphorus.

Even the trunk and leaves are used in many ways like shelter.

In the olden days they would even burn the shell and use it for tooth cleaning powder.

In Hindu worship one of the most common offerings is the coconut.

he coconut is broken and placed at the deities feet.

It is later given out as ‘Prasad’ a holy gift.

When a coconut is broken at an entrance it symbolises the removal of negativity and brining positivity. 

The colour white inside the coconut symbolises purity.

Traditionally in worship the fibre of the coconut is removed except for a small tuft on the top. It makes it look like a head with a tuft of hair.

When the coconut is broken it symbolises breaking of the ego.

The water inside represents “Vasanas” our inner tendencies, the white flesh representing our mind.

The three circles on the coconut are even thought to represent the three-eyed Lord Shiva and considered to be a means to fulfil our desires.

 What does Prasad mean?

Prasad is a gift given graciously and shared between the Divine and the individual(s) making the offering.

At its essence, it symbolizes receiving and giving between the Divine and human  illustrating grace, divine love and connection.

In yoga, this term can mean either grace given divinely or mental clarity, and illustrates a generous exchange between the individual and the Divine that can result in transformation of self.

Explains Prasad

Prasad is usually an edible gift used in Hindu worship and presented to a deity.

The deity blesses the gift and then shares it with those making the offering, demonstrating grace and generosity between the Divine and humanity.

Although this practice is often carried out with edible offerings, other material items can be used as well.

Within yoga, individuals aim for self-transformation and connection with the Divine. Prasad is a method of such a connection through an experiential exchange that teaches the individual grace and receiving with humility.

Naivedya Offerings History: A Sacred Culinary Tradition

The history of Naivedya offerings traces back to ancient times, rooted in deep devotion and spiritual practices. Naivedya, meaning “sacred food,” is a tradition that involves offering freshly prepared food to deities as an expression of gratitude, love, and surrender.

The practice has evolved over centuries, incorporating regional flavours and customs, while maintaining its essence of heartfelt devotion.

Naivedya, also known as Prasadam, holds a significant place in Hindu rituals and traditions.

This sacred practice involves offering food to deities during religious ceremonies and then consuming it as a blessed offering.

The history of Naivedya offerings is steeped in rich mythology and cultural significance, tracing back centuries to ancient times.

Let us embark on a journey through time to explore the origins and evolution of this revered practice.

Origin and Mythological Significance

Naivedya offerings are an integral part of the rituals of Hindus in South Indian states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.

This sacred practice involves offering food to deities during religious ceremonies, symbolizing devotion and gratitude.

The origin and mythological significance of Naivedya offerings are deeply rooted in ancient beliefs and stories.

Let’s delve into the fascinating history of Naivedya and its mythological connections.

Origin

The tradition of Naivedya offerings dates back centuries, originating from ancient Hindu scriptures and customs.

It is believed that this practice emerged as a way to express reverence and devotion to divine beings.

Offering food to deities was seen as a way to honour their presence and seek their blessings.

Over time, this ritual became an integral part of religious ceremonies, festivals, and daily worship.

Mythological Significance

According to Hindu mythology, Naivedya offerings hold great significance in the interactions between gods and mortals.

It is believed that deities not only accept these offerings but also partake in the essence of the food, sanctifying it.

This act of divine consumption is considered a blessing, as it signifies the gods’ presence and their acceptance of the devotees’ devotion.

The stories and legends associated with Naivedya offerings vary across different Hindu traditions, but they all emphasize the importance of this sacred act.

For example:

•    The Churning of the Ocean:

In the mythological tale of Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), gods and demons joined forces to obtain the nectar of immortality.

During this cosmic event, numerous divine objects emerged from the ocean, including the Amrita (divine nectar).

The gods, led by Lord Vishnu, offered prayers and performed rituals, including Naivedya offerings, to appease the deities and receive their blessings.

•    The Tale of Ksheerabdhi Madanam:

In this story, Lord Vishnu appeared as Mohini, a celestial enchantress, during the churning of the cosmic ocean.

When the Amrita emerged, the demons became greedy and wanted it all for themselves.

To prevent a catastrophe, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into Mohini and mesmerized the demons with her beauty.

As a part of this divine play, Naivedya offerings were presented to the gods and demons, bringing harmony and unity among them.

These mythological stories highlight the symbolic significance of Naivedya offerings, emphasizing the gods’ participation and their role in bestowing blessings upon devotees.

Evolution and Regional Variations

Naivedya offerings, also known as Prasadam, have evolved, incorporating regional flavours and cultural nuances.

This sacred practice of offering food to deities during religious ceremonies has adapted to the diverse culinary traditions and customs across different regions of India.

Let’s explore the evolution and regional variations of Naivedya offerings, showcasing the rich tapestry of flavours and rituals.

South India:

In the southern regions of India, rice-based dishes form the core of Naivedya offerings. Idli (steamed rice cakes), dosa (fermented rice and lentil crepes), and pongal (rice and lentil dish) are commonly prepared and presented to the deities.

Tamarind rice (puliyodarai), curd rice (thayir sadam), and coconut rice (thengai sadam) are also popular choices.

The inclusion of coconut, curry leaves, and spices add distinct flavours to the offerings.

North India:

North India has its own set of traditional Naivedya offerings.

Sweets play a prominent role, with dishes like ladoo (sweet flour balls), kheer (rice pudding), peda (sweet milk fudge), and barfi (sweet milk-based squares) being offered to deities.

Savoury items like puri (deep-fried bread), chole (chickpea curry), and halwa (semolina pudding) also find their place in Naivedya rituals.

East India:

In the eastern parts of India, Naivedya offerings reflect the local culinary heritage.

Rice-based preparations such as khichdi (rice and lentil dish) and bhog (temple-style mixed rice) are commonly offered.

Sweets like sandesh (sweetened cottage cheese), rosogolla (spongy cheese balls in syrup), and malpua (pan-fried sweet pancakes) are popular choices for Naivedya.

West India:

The western regions of India boast a rich variety of Naivedya offerings.

Gujarati cuisine, for example, includes dishes like dhokla (steamed savoury cakes), fafda (crispy gram flour snack), and shrikhand (sweet strained yoghurt).

Maharashtrian cuisine offers puran poli (sweet stuffed bread), modak (sweet dumplings), and batata vada (potato fritters) as Naivedya offerings.

Central India:

In central India, Naivedya offerings are characterized by a mix of sweet and savoury items.

Poha (flattened rice), kachori (stuffed fried bread), and jalebi (syrup-soaked sweet spirals) are commonly prepared and offered.

The region also has a tradition of offering traditional sweets like gajar halwa (carrot pudding) and mawa peda (milk-based sweet) during Naivedya rituals.

These are just a few examples of the regional variations in Naivedya offerings.

Each region has its distinct culinary heritage, and the offerings reflect local tastes and preferences.

However, regardless of the regional differences, the essence of devotion and gratitude remains central to the practice of Naivedya.

Ingredients and Preparations

Naivedya offerings, also known as Prasadam, are prepared with great care and attention to detail.

The ingredients used in these sacred offerings are selected with purity and devotion in mind.

The preparations involve following traditional recipes and maintaining a sanctified environment.

Let’s delve into the ingredients and preparations involved in Naivedya offerings, showcasing the significance and reverence associated with this practice.

Ingredients:

The choice of ingredients for Naivedya offerings is crucial, as they symbolize purity and devotion.

Here are some common ingredients used in the preparation of Naivedya offerings:

•    Rice: Rice, being a staple in many Indian households, is a primary ingredient for Naivedya. Varieties like Basmati, Sona Masuri, or local indigenous rice are preferred.

•    Pulses and Lentils: Lentils like moong dal, chana dal, and urad dal are often used in savoury preparations.

•    Flours: Wheat flour, gram flour (besan), and rice flour are essential for making various sweets and snacks.

•    Ghee and Oil: Pure ghee (clarified butter) or cooking oil is used for cooking and frying.

•    Jaggery or Sugar: Jaggery (unrefined sugar) or white sugar is used to sweeten the offerings.

•    Milk and Dairy Products: Milk, curd, buttermilk, and ghee are common ingredients in many Naivedya preparations.

•    Spices and Flavorings: Common spices like cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, saffron, and flavours like rose water or essence are used to enhance the taste and aroma.

Preparations:

The preparations of Naivedya offerings involve adhering to traditional recipes and maintaining sanctity throughout the process. Here’s a glimpse into the typical preparations:

•    Cleanliness and Sanctity: Before beginning the preparations, the kitchen area and utensils are cleaned thoroughly. This is done to ensure purity and to maintain a sanctified environment for cooking.

•    Ritualistic Prayers: The preparation of Naivedya offerings often starts with invoking the blessings of the deities through prayers and mantras. This is believed to infuse the food with divine energy and sanctity.

•    Traditional Recipes: The offerings are prepared following traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. These recipes often vary based on regional and family traditions.

•    Attention to Detail: Great care is taken to measure the ingredients accurately and follow the cooking instructions precisely. Each step is performed with mindfulness and devotion.

•    Mantra Chanting: Devotees may chant prayers or mantras while cooking, infusing positive vibrations and spiritual energy into the food.

•    Pure and Fresh Ingredients: The ingredients used are fresh and pure, without any impurities. This emphasizes the devotion and respect offered to the deities.

•    Hygiene and Cleanliness: Hygiene and cleanliness are maintained throughout the preparation process to ensure the offerings remain pure and untainted.

By following these rituals and practices, devotees believe that the offerings become blessed and sanctified, representing a sacred offering to the deities.

Blessings and Distribution:

Naivedya offerings, also known as Prasadam, hold a profound spiritual significance in Hindu traditions.

These sacred offerings are believed to be infused with divine blessings and are distributed among devotees as a way to share in the sanctity and grace.

Let’s explore the blessings associated with Naivedya offerings and the significance of their distribution.

Blessings of the Deities:

Naivedya offerings are made with deep reverence and devotion, symbolizing the act of surrendering to the divine.

It is believed that when the offerings are presented to the deities, they partake in the essence of the food, sanctifying it.

By consuming the Naivedya, the deities bestow their blessings upon the devotees.

It is considered a sacred exchange, where devotees offer their love and devotion, and in return, receive the divine blessings and grace.

Spiritual Nourishment:

Naivedya offerings are seen as a source of spiritual nourishment. It is believed that consuming the blessed Prasadam helps purify the mind, body, and soul.

The act of partaking in the Naivedya is considered a way to imbibe the divine qualities and virtues associated with the deities.

Devotees believe that the blessed food fills them with positive energy, uplifts their spirits, and strengthens their spiritual connection.

Sharing the Sanctity:

The distribution of Naivedya offerings among devotees is an essential aspect of the ritual.

The blessed Prasadam is seen as a sacred gift from the divine, and by distributing it, the sanctity is shared with others.

This act fosters a sense of unity, community, and goodwill among the worshippers.

Devotees consider the Prasadam as a blessed offering and partaking in it is believed to bring divine blessings and protection.

Equal Access to Devotion:

Naivedya offerings and their distribution play a significant role in democratizing devotion.

Regardless of social status, age, or gender, all devotees have equal access to partake in the blessed Prasadam.

This egalitarian practice fosters a sense of inclusiveness and equality among worshippers, reinforcing the idea that devotion and blessings are accessible to all.

Prasad Seva:

The act of distributing Naivedya offerings is often referred to as Prasad Seva.

It is performed with utmost care and respect, ensuring that every devotee receives a portion of the blessed Prasadam.

The distribution is often done systematically, with devotees forming lines or queues to receive their share.

It is considered a sacred duty to serve the Prasadam with love, humility, and mindfulness.

Community and Social Significance:

Naivedya offerings, also known as Prasadam, hold not only religious but also community and social significance in Hindu traditions.

These sacred offerings play a vital role in fostering a sense of unity, camaraderie, and social cohesion among devotees.

Let’s explore the community and social significance of Naivedya offerings and how they bring people together.

Communal Bonding:

Naivedya offerings provide a platform for communal bonding and togetherness.

The act of preparing, offering, and distributing Prasadam involves the participation of a community.

Families, friends, and volunteers come together to cook, arrange, and distribute the blessed food.

This collective effort strengthens relationships, encourages teamwork, and builds a sense of unity within the community.

Inclusive Participation:

Naivedya offerings promote inclusive participation, regardless of caste, creed, or social status.

Everyone is invited to contribute to the preparation or distribution of the Prasadam.

This inclusive approach breaks barriers and fosters a sense of equality and belonging among devotees.

It promotes a spirit of unity, as people from diverse backgrounds come together to serve and partake in the blessed offerings.

Community Service:

The practice of distributing Naivedya offerings is often considered an act of community service.

Devotees who engage in the preparation and distribution of Prasadam see it as a way to serve others selflessly.

This service-oriented approach instils a sense of compassion, empathy, and responsibility within the community.

It provides an opportunity to contribute positively to the well-being of others and strengthen the fabric of society.

Festive Celebrations:

Naivedya offerings are an integral part of religious festivals and celebrations.

During these occasions, the community comes together to offer special Prasadam, which is often a reflection of the festival’s significance and regional culinary traditions.

The festive atmosphere enhances the sense of community spirit, as people gather to celebrate, share meals, and partake in the blessed offerings.

Nurturing Relationships:

The act of sharing Naivedya offerings nurtures relationships and builds a sense of goodwill within the community.

The distribution of Prasadam allows people to connect, engage in conversations, and foster a sense of camaraderie.

It provides an opportunity for devotees to express their care, concern, and solidarity towards others, strengthening the social fabric of the community.

Charity and Philanthropy:

Naivedya offerings often serve as a means to support charitable causes and philanthropic endeavours.

Devotees may contribute towards providing meals or Prasadam to the less privileged or underprivileged sections of society.

This act of charity not only addresses the physical needs of the community but also cultivates a sense of empathy and social responsibility.

Modern-Day Significance

Naivedya offerings, also known as Prasadam, continue to hold profound significance in modern times.

While rooted in ancient traditions, these sacred offerings have evolved to address contemporary needs and reflect the changing dynamics of society.

Let’s explore the modern-day significance of Naivedya offerings and how they remain relevant in today’s world.

Spiritual Connection:

Amid a fast-paced and hectic lifestyle, Naivedya offerings provide a means to establish and deepen one’s spiritual connection.

The act of preparing, offering, and partaking in the blessed Prasadam allows individuals to pause, reflect, and engage in a moment of devotion.

It serves as a reminder of the spiritual aspect of life and helps individuals find solace, peace, and tranquillity amidst the challenges of the modern world.

Mindfulness and Consciousness:

The practice of Naivedya offerings encourages mindfulness and consciousness in our relationship with food.

In a time when fast food and processed meals have become prevalent, the act of preparing and consuming blessed Prasadam promotes a mindful approach to eating.

It reminds individuals to be grateful for the sustenance they receive, to savour each bite, and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the nourishment provided by nature.

Cultural Preservation:

Naivedya offerings play a vital role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

The traditional recipes, rituals, and practices associated with Naivedya offerings are passed down through generations, ensuring the continuity of cultural knowledge and culinary traditions.

By engaging in these practices, individuals contribute to the preservation and celebration of their cultural identity and heritage.

Social Harmony and Inclusivity:

Naivedya offerings promote social harmony and inclusivity by bringing people together across different backgrounds and beliefs.

The act of offering and distributing Prasadam transcends barriers and encourages a sense of unity and equality among individuals.

It fosters an environment of inclusiveness, where all are welcome to partake in the blessed offerings, regardless of their social status, age, or gender.

Community Building:

The practice of preparing and distributing Naivedya offerings fosters community building and a sense of belonging.

In a time when people may feel isolated or disconnected, coming together to cook, serve, and share blessed Prasadam strengthens the bonds within communities.

It provides an opportunity for individuals to collaborate, share their talents, and contribute to the well-being of others, creating a supportive and nurturing community environment.

Charity and Service:

Naivedya offerings have also embraced a modern-day significance through their association with charitable endeavours and service to others.

Many organizations and individuals use Prasadam as a means to support philanthropic causes, such as feeding the underprivileged or providing meals to those in need.

This practice not only addresses societal challenges but also instils a sense of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility among individuals.

The history of Naivedya offerings is a testament to the deep-rooted devotion and reverence in Hindu culture.

This sacred practice not only signifies the bond between humans and the divine but also fosters a sense of unity and community among worshippers.

As we partake in the blessed Prasadam, we are reminded of the timeless traditions, values, and spirituality that continue to enrich our lives.

What is Naivedya?

Naivedya is included in the Shodashopachara worship.

The holy ritual involves two steps.

The first step involves offering food to God before anyone else has eaten or tasted it.

In the second step, a portion of the offering is returned to the person offering it for eating and is called Naivedya.

How should Naivedya be?

Naivedya should be of five types and pure.

In Tantrasara it is mentioned as,

Nivedaniyamyaddravyam prashastam prayatam tathatad                         

bhakshyarham panchvidham naivedyamitikathyate bhakshyam bhajyam cha lehyam cha peyamchushyam

Cha panchamam sarvatra chaitam naivedyamaradhyasyainivedayet

Naivedya should be pure and of five types, those are for swallowing, biting, tasting, drinking and licking.

Naivedya should be pure and freshly cooked.

It should not be half cooked or burnt. 

How should Naivedya be offered?

It should be covered while bringing it in front of deities.

Naivedya should be offered in the utensil of gold, silver, copper, stone, lotus leaf or of sacrificial wood.

It should be kept on the right side of the deity.

The one which is kept on the left side is not suggested for eating for Gods.

It should be placed on the circle drawn with water on the floor.

Then by taking tulsi leaf or flower in hand one should act like feeding it to God.

During this ritual one should recite following verse

Pranayaswaha apanayaswaha vyanayaswaha

Udanayaswaha samanayaswaha brahmaneswaha

Who should eat Naivedya?

Naivedya which is offered to Vishnu should be eaten by the host himself.

It can be eaten by people from all four Ashramas.

Naivedya offered to other deities should be given to devotee of those deities or to a Brahmin.

The same is mentioned in following verse,

Pavitram vishnunaivedyam sursiddharshibhih smrutam

Anyadevasya naivedyam bhuktva chandrayam charet

Naivedya offered to Shiva should not be eaten by devotee himself.

The story says,

Once, the Naivedya of Lord Shiva was offered to Vishnu alone and no one else. Hence Parvati became angry and cursed Shiva as hereafter the one who will eat Naivedya offered to Shiva will become a dog in his next birth.

Hence it is prohibited from having Naivedya offered to Shiva.

Sharing of Naivedya

A person who eats Naivedya alone – without sharing it with others present in front of him –is committing a sinful act.

If a person refuses to partake of the Naivedya, he is sure to get into difficulties.

There was a Brahmin who did not accept Naivedya as it was cooked by others. As a result he suffered diseases, and his family became dumb.

He was freed from these calamities again when he partook of the Naivedya.

How Long Does God Take To Eat Naivedya? 

Offering food to the Deities during ceremonial prayer or puja at home or temples is a popular practice in Hinduism and the Hindu Dharma.

This offering is known as a Naivedya. It denotes the person’s original and general condition.

Puja ends with the offering of Naivedya.

Worshippers offer each Deity a certain set of foods.

According to legend, every Deity has a favorite food item that is served to them as Naivedya, such as kheer or Shira for Vishnu, Modak for Ganapati, or Payas for the Goddess.

The t meal served to a certain Deity draws more frequencies of that particular Deity.

After offering the Naivedya, the Deities quietly accept them; this offering is then known as Prasad and is consumed by everyone.

When we consume Naivedya as prasad, we benefit from the aura of that Deity.

The spiritual significance of presenting Naivedya and its different facets are discussed in this article.