How to Perform Aarti: Step-by-Step Guide with Mantras and Meaning

Aarti, a sacred ritual in Hindu tradition, is more than a ceremonial offering, it's an expression of pure devotion. Bhavesh Bhimanathani explains that the word Aarti in Sanskrit has two parts: ‘aa' meaning complete and ‘rati' meaning love, symbolizing unconditional love for the Divine. Performed at the end of poojas or as a daily practice in Indian homes, Aarti is a moment of spiritual connection and gratitude.

The Significance of Aarti:

Aarti is not just about lighting lamps; it's about invoking divine energy and offering heartfelt devotion. The ritual represents surrender, purity, and the illumination of wisdom, dispelling darkness from our lives. Bhavesh emphasizes that the essence lies in the bhāva, the feeling behind the act, rather than the number of circles or type of lamp used.

How to Perform Aarti:

Prepare the Pancha Pradeep using five wicks and flowers.
Hold the lamp (Deepam) in your right hand and a bell in your left.
Move the lamp slowly in a clockwise direction, circling the deity's feet, heart, face, and full form.
Offer flowers with complete focus and love.
Light camphor and let it burn fully as a symbol of ego dissolution.

While offering camphor, you may chant the mantra:

कर्पूरगौरं करुणावतारं संसारसारं भुजगेन्द्रहारम्।
सदा वसन्तं हृदयारविन्दे भवं भवानी सहितं नमामि॥
Or simply offer a heartfelt prayer in silence.

Bhavesh reminds us that Aarti is a moment of presence—a quiet offering of love and gratitude. It's not about perfection but about intention. When performed with sincerity, Aarti becomes a powerful tool to align with divine energy and invite peace into our lives.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Bhavesh Bhimanathani (@bhavesh_yuj)