Ayudha Puja

 Ayudha Puja also called Astra Puja is the “Worship of Implements”.It is part of the Navratri celebrations.

All the implements that are part of one’s occupation, such as machines, vehicles, tools,computers etc. are cleaned properly, polished and decorated. Then they are smeared with sandalwood and turmeric paste. Flowers are  offered. The implements  are then worshiped along with the image of Saraswati ,for wisdom.

This worship is an expression of gratitude to the divine forces for helping us earn our livelihoods and also prayers or the successful execution of duties in the coming year.

So you can see all types of vehicles including bicycles out on the streets after a wash , decorated with flowers and frills.

Business establishments,offices and factories  are spruced up and bedecked with fresh flowers, banana leaves, plantain saplings and other festival related festoons. Read more of this post