Aarati And Puja
Everybody must come in time to darshan*, kirtan** and aarati*** (also spelled arati). Manage your time effectively, so you are prompt. When you go back to the West, do aarati and kirtan at the proper times. Everybody can do aarati and puja**** at their home.
Jan. 5, 1983
* Darshan - In Hindu worship, the beholding of a deity, revered person, or sacred object.
** Kirtan - A call-and-response chanting of hymns or mantras to the accompaniment of instruments.
*** Aarati - A Hindu religious ritual of worship, a part of puja, in which light from wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor is offered to one or more deities. Aartis also refer to the songs sung in praise of the deity, when lamps are being offered.
**** Puja - A prayer ritual performed by Hindus to host, honour and worship one or more deities, or to spiritually celebrate an event.