In Hinduism , a form of ceremonial worship.
It may range from brief daily rites in the home to an elaborate temple ritual. A typical puja offers the image of a deity the honours accorded to a royal guest. The god is gently roused from sleep, ritually bathed and dressed, served three meals during the day, and ceremonially put to bed. Rituals may also include a sacrifice and oblation to the sacred fire. Some puja s are performed by the worshiper alone; others require a ritually pure person. A puja may be performed for a specific purpose or simply as an act of devotion.