Akshat Puja: Why is the use of Akshat considered mandatory in puja? Know the importance of Akshat

In Hindu religion, offering rice i.e. unbroken rice at the time of worship is considered very old and important. The belief is that without Akshat, the worship remains incomplete. Akshat means that which is not broken. Therefore, whole and unbroken rice is offered in the worship so that the worship is considered complete and auspicious.

White rice is considered sacred. White color is considered a symbol of peace and purity. While worshiping God, people offer rice and pray for happiness, peace and prosperity in their home. That is why the use of rice is seen in almost every puja.

Due to being safe inside the paddy, rice is considered to be the purest grain. It cannot be easily harmed by animals or birds. Akshat is also used while taking resolutions in puja, because Akshat is considered a sign of stability and concentration. The use of rice at the time of resolution is considered to be associated with the feeling of keeping our thoughts strong.

It is considered mandatory to use clean, whole and unbroken rice in the puja. It is believed that offering unbroken and broken rice is not considered auspicious and the gods are not pleased with it. Therefore, only specially selected, clean and whole rice is offered for the puja.

Although rice is considered a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi, rice is not offered in the worship of some deities. Offering rice in the worship of Lord Vishnu and Shaligram is considered taboo. Similarly, rice is not offered in the worship of Hanuman ji, because it is considered against religious rules.

Akshat can be offered in the worship of Lord Shiva, but during this time it is kept in mind that there is no turmeric, kumkum or color applied on the rice. Only ordinary, white and unbroken rice is offered to Lord Shiva. Therefore, while worshiping, special attention is paid to the purity and completeness of Akshat.