Anniversary Puja: A Celebration of Union and Blessings
Samagri
for Puja:
Haldi [organic] (20gm), Kumkum [organic] (20gm), Tulsi Mala (1), Diya Batti (5), Beetle Nuts (5), Desi Ghee (20ml), Honey (20ml), Jaggery (Gudh) (20gm), Akshata [Yellow rice] (20gm), Yagno-paveetha (5), Karpoora [camphor] (5Tabs), Red/White/Yellow Cloth(1 mtr), Prasad [Laung, Elaichi, Mishri] (20gm), Mouli (25mtr), Ganga Jal (15ml), Durva [fresh] (1), Agarbatti (6)/Dhoop (2), Dakshina (100INR), God Idols (pair), Sambrani (2), Sambrani Holder (1), Kalash [small copper] (1), Panchpatra [small copper] (1), Diya Holder (2), Panchamrit spoon (1), Karpoora Holder(1), includes perishables [Beetle Leaves [fresh] (9), Flowers [fresh] (incl mala), Tulsi [fresh], Mango Leaves [fresh] (7)]
Small Havan:
Cow Dung Cake (2), Mango Wood (250gm), HavanSamagri [20+ Grganic Herbs] (100gm), Ghee (20ml)
Yajman to provide:
Curd (100gm), Milk (100ml), Mithai (250gm), Fruits [5types], Coconut (1), HavanKund, SuchiSarva (Havan Spoon) (1), Kalash [big] (1), Bowl [preferably copper/silver] (1), Spoon [preferably copper/silver] (1), Utensils [2 big Plates (for Aarti/Samagri), disposable Plates, Bowls & Spoons], First solid food (preferably Kheer or Payasam)
Introduction
An anniversary marks the completion of a significant period since a life-changing event, often a wedding. It is a time to reflect on the journey of love and commitment shared between a couple. The Anniversary Puja is a sacred ritual performed to honour and celebrate this enduring bond, seeking blessings for continued happiness and prosperity. It serves as a moment to express gratitude to the divine for the strength and joy experienced throughout the years of togetherness.
Importance and Significance of Anniversary Puja
An Anniversary Puja is more than a mere celebration; it is a heartfelt expression of reverence and gratitude. By conducting this puja, couples acknowledge the divine guidance and support received throughout their married life. It is an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to each other and seek continued blessings for their journey ahead. The puja also serves as a reflection on the growth and experiences shared, reinforcing the importance of love, respect, and unity in a marriage.
Benefits of Anniversary Puja
- Strengthening the Bond: The puja reinforces the couple’s bond, helping them renew their vows and commitment to each other.
- Seeking Divine Blessings: It invites divine blessings for continued happiness, health, and prosperity in their marital life.
- Reflecting on the Journey: The ceremony provides a chance to reflect on the growth and experiences of the past years, fostering a deeper appreciation for each other.
- Bringing Harmony: The puja aims to enhance harmony and peace in the couple’s life, creating a positive environment for future endeavours.
Occasions to Perform Anniversary Puja
Anniversary Puja is ideally performed on the anniversary date itself, celebrating the milestone of a year, several years, or even decades of marriage. Some couples choose to mark special anniversaries, such as the silver, golden, or diamond jubilees, with more elaborate ceremonies. The timing of the puja can vary, but it is typically conducted on an auspicious day chosen based on astrological considerations and personal preferences.
Anniversary Puja Vidhi (Procedure)
- Preparation: The couple prepares for the puja by adorning themselves in traditional attire. They might also choose to wear clothes that have special significance for the occasion.
- Setup: A sacred space is arranged with an altar where the puja will take place. This includes placing idols or pictures of deities, flowers, incense, and other puja essentials.
- Invocation: The puja begins with invoking Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for a smooth and successful ceremony.
- Offering Prayers: The couple offers prayers of gratitude to the divine for their successful journey together and seeks blessings for continued harmony.
- Puja Rituals: Traditional rituals include performing aarti, offering flowers, and making symbolic offerings like fruits and sweets.
- Blessings: The couple seeks blessings from family members and elders present, who may also offer their good wishes and advice for the future.
- Exchange of Gifts: Often, the couple exchanges gifts as a symbol of their affection and appreciation for one another.
- Celebration: The puja may be followed by a small celebration with close family and friends, sharing joy and reflecting on the couple’s journey.
Anniversary Puja Shubh Muhurat
The Shubh Muhurat for the Anniversary Puja is usually chosen based on astrological recommendations and personal convenience. It is considered auspicious to perform the puja during favourable planetary alignments to enhance its effectiveness. Couples may consult with an astrologer to determine the most propitious time for their special day.
By celebrating an Anniversary Puja, couples honour their journey together and seek continued divine support for a fulfilling and joyous future. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate love, commitment, and the many blessings that have enriched their lives.
