Vastu Shanti

Vastu Shanti is a ritual performed to seek the blessings of the Vastu Purush, the deity believed to be the guardian of a building or a plot of land, and to ensure that the construction is free from any negative energies. It’s a traditional Indian practice based on Vastu Shastra, which is an ancient science of architecture and construction.

Here is a detailed description of the Vastu Shanti ritual:

**1. Timing:

• Vastu Shanti is typically performed before moving into a new home or before starting any construction work on a plot of land. It is considered best to perform this ritual during an auspicious time or muhurat suggested by a priest or Vastu expert.

**2. Preparation:

• Before the ritual, the area where the puja is to be performed is thoroughly cleaned and purified.
• The priest or the person performing the ritual is traditionally dressed in clean and appropriate attire.

**3. Materials:

• The materials required for Vastu Shanti include various items used in Hindu rituals such as a kalash (holy water pot), flowers, fruits, coconuts, incense sticks, camphor, ghee (clarified butter), betel leaves, betel nuts, and various grains like rice and wheat.

**4. The Ritual:

• Ganapati Puja: The ritual usually starts with a Ganapati puja to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

• Navagraha Puja: This involves offering prayers to the nine planets (Navagrahas) to seek their positive influence and minimize any negative effects on the building.

• Kalash Puja: A kalash filled with holy water, coins, and certain grains is established at a prominent place. It symbolizes the presence of the deity and is worshipped.

• Vastu Purush Puja: A specific idol or representation of Vastu Purush is placed, and prayers are offered to seek his blessings and to ensure harmony in the living space.

• Homam (Fire Ritual): This involves lighting a sacred fire and offering various materials like ghee, herbs, and other substances while chanting Vedic mantras. The fire is considered a medium to carry prayers to the deities.

• Aarti: After the homam, an aarti (ritual of waving a lit lamp) is performed to conclude the puja.

**5. Offerings and Prayers:

• Throughout the ritual, various offerings like fruits, flowers, and grains are made to the deities. Mantras and prayers from the Vedic scriptures are chanted.

**6. Distribution of Prasad:

• After the ritual, prasad (blessed food or items) is distributed among the attendees as a token of blessings.

**7. Conclusion:

• The ritual concludes with a final aarti and offerings, and the attendees seek blessings for the well-being and prosperity of the occupants of the building.

It’s important to note that the exact procedures and rituals may vary depending on regional customs, local beliefs, and the preferences of the individuals involved. Consulting a qualified priest or Vastu expert can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation.