What Not to Do During Diwali Puja – Important Things to Avoid

What Not to Do During Diwali Puja

Lakshmi Puja on Diwali is a sacred and important ritual in most Hindu homes. Along with knowing the right way to perform the puja, it is equally important to avoid certain things that are traditionally considered improper. These practices have been followed in families for generations to keep the atmosphere pure and positive.

Things You Should Avoid During Diwali Puja

• Do not leave the house dark: Keeping the house dark on Diwali evening and night is considered inauspicious. Always keep diyas or lights burning.
• Avoid arguments or negative talk: The time of puja should be calm and peaceful. Quarrels, anger, or negative conversations are best avoided.
• Do not start the puja without bathing and wearing clean clothes: Taking a bath and wearing clean or fresh clothes before the puja is considered important. Performing puja in unclean clothes is not preferred.
• Do not keep puja items incomplete: Getting up repeatedly to fetch things breaks the flow of the puja. Keep everything ready in advance.
• Do not skip Lord Ganesha’s worship: According to tradition, Lord Ganesha is worshipped first. Skipping this is generally not recommended.
• Do not switch off all lights immediately after the puja: It is considered better to keep at least some diyas or lights on for a while after the aarti.
• Avoid unnecessary noise and distractions: Talking loudly on the phone, watching TV, or creating disturbance during the puja should be avoided.
• Do not waste the prasad: Prasad should be accepted with respect and not wasted.
• Do not ignore elders: Listening to family elders and following the household traditions is considered respectful and important.
• Do not perform the puja only for show: The puja should be done with genuine devotion and a pure heart, not just to impress others.

Other Important Points

Many families observe a vegetarian diet and avoid alcohol on Diwali day. If this is the tradition in your home, it is better to follow it. Also, once the house has been cleaned for the puja, try to keep it clean afterward. Making the house messy again after cleaning is not considered appropriate.

The most important thing is to perform the puja with peace, respect, and positive intention. Avoiding these small mistakes helps maintain the sanctity of the ritual and brings a sense of calm to the family. Even if something is missed or a small mistake happens, sincere devotion matters the most.