Pran Pratishtha is a Hindu ritual during which life force, or “Prana,” is infused into a deity or idol, making it spiritually alive and consecrated. This ceremony is performed to invoke divine presence and blessings in the idol, turning it into a sacred symbol for worship in temples or homes.
Pran Pratishtha involves invoking the divine presence into the idol through prayers, mantras, and rituals performed by qualified priests. The process typically includes purification, invoking the deity’s energy, and consecrating the idol with various offerings. Specific details can vary based on regional traditions and the deity being honored.
The history of Pran Pratishtha dates back to ancient Hindu religious practices. The concept is rooted in the belief that through the ritual, a deity’s divine presence is invoked and resides within the consecrated idol. This practice can be traced to various Vedic and Puranic traditions, with each deity having specific rituals associated with their consecration.
Historically, Pran Pratishtha has been an integral part of temple construction and idol worship in Hinduism. The rituals and methods have evolved over centuries, influenced by different philosophical and regional traditions. The purpose remains consistent: to establish a living connection between the worshipper and the divine by inviting the deity to reside in the consecrated form.
While the exact historical origins may be challenging to pinpoint due to the ancient nature of the practice, Pran Pratishtha continues to be a significant aspect of Hindu religious ceremonies and temple activities. Recently lord Ram idol has been installed at Ayodhya Ram Mandir through Pran Pratishtha ritual.
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