Step by Step Guide to Perform a Hawan

Hawan is a vedic ritual in Hinduism where diverse substances are added to sacred fire. Any pooja is considered to be complete with a hawan. Hawan is a Sanskrit word and when performed invokes positivity, purity and divine blessing. Hawan, is the term more commonly used in North India, in South India it is popularly called Homa. Hawans are not just rituals, they are a part of vedic science which connects our soul to the universe.

Introduction to Hawan

The main component of Hawan is fire and in Hindu religion Sun is considered the vital source of energy. Hence, fire symbolizes the Sun. Offering made to the Fire is called “hawan samagri” along with ghee, dryfruits, coconut, rice, honey and mango wood. Sanskrit shloka and mantra are recited during the process. 

Gathering Hawan Samagri 

A trained Pandit usually performs the hawan during a Puja. A square shaped mini alter is created called the “hawankund” that holds the fire. The “hawankund” is decorated with flowers, mango leaves, paan leaves, nutmeg, grains, roli and sindoor. The Pandit uses wheat flour to make symbols of Swastik, Om and Navgrah. Fruits offered at the hawan are then distributed as prasad.

Starting the Hawan Pooja 

A prayer is first offered to the hawankund at the start of the process with a coconut being placed in the centre. A roli tilak on forehead and some flowers with rice is given to all participants. Diya and incense sticks are lit by the hawankund. The mantras recited during the hawan puja channelizes our engery and purifies the atmosphere which is very well experienced by the participants.

Shlokas & Mantras for Hawan

When the hawan begins, pieces of mango sticks are put in the fire along with a spoonful of ghee. Every part of the mantra ends with a “Swaha…” when a fingerful of samigri is put in the hawankund by the participants. The smoke emitted by the fire eliminates negativity of our soul and body. It also helps bring success and proseperity. The hawan ends with an Aarti and a mauli being tied around the wrist. The mauli is a red-yellow protective thread that wards off evil. It is worn in the right hand of men and unmarried women whereas on the left hand of married women. It signifies Lord Shiva on the right side and Parvathi Ji on the left side.