In Sanatan Dharma, the tradition of offering flowers and fruits to Gods and Goddesses during worship is centuries old. It is believed that flowers and fruits offered with devotion and regularly please the Lord. But some such flowers and fruits are also mentioned in the scriptures, which are considered prohibited to be offered to particular gods and goddesses. Many reasons behind this are mentioned in religious texts and Puranas.
These flowers are not offered to Lord Shiva
According to religious beliefs, Ketaki flower should not be offered to Lord Shiva. It is mentioned in Shiva Purana. According to the story, Lord Brahma had taken the help of Ketaki flower to give false testimony in front of Lord Shiva. Angered by this, Lord Shiva prohibited Ketaki flower from his worship.
Apart from this, Tulsi Dal is also not offered to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Tulsi Mata is considered to be related to Lord Vishnu, hence its use in Shiva worship is prohibited.
What should not be offered to Lord Vishnu?
Akshat, Tulsi and yellow flowers are considered very dear in the worship of Lord Vishnu. But in the scriptures it is prohibited to offer Aak and Dhatura to Lord Vishnu. These things are mainly considered dear to Lord Shiva.
According to religious scholars, stale flowers or even cut fruits should not be offered to Lord Vishnu. It is always considered auspicious to use fresh and clean fruits and flowers in worship.
Goddess Lakshmi does not like these things
Cleanliness and fragrance are considered very dear to Goddess Lakshmi. Therefore, they should not be offered dry, withered or thorny flowers. In many religious beliefs, it is said that Tulsi should not be offered to Goddess Lakshmi, because Tulsi is associated with Lord Vishnu.
Apart from this, offering broken or rotten fruits to Gods and Goddesses is also considered inauspicious.
Why is offering Tulsi to Lord Ganesha considered taboo?
According to religious stories, once Tulsi Mata had expressed her desire to marry Lord Ganesha, but Ganesha refused. Angered by this, Tulsi cursed him. Since then Tulsi is not offered in the worship of Lord Ganesha.
Although there is a separate mention of it in some traditions on some special occasions like Ganesh Chaturthi, it is advisable to avoid offering Tulsi in normal puja.
Keep these things in mind during puja
Always use fresh and fragrant flowers. Do not offer broken, fallen or withered flowers. Use only clean and pure fruits in worship. Follow the classical rules related to the worship of Gods and Goddesses.
According to religious beliefs, worship done with correct method and devotion brings happiness, peace and positive energy in a person’s life. Therefore, it is considered very important to keep in mind the classical rules while selecting puja material.
