________________
जिज्ञासा और समाधान : ९१ Asta Prakāri Pūjā. The Asta Prakārī Pūjā is done by offering eight different types of substances. Jain pūjā symbolizes various aspects of our religion. There are different types of pūjā being performed at the occassion of various religious ceremonies. The following eight materials are used in performing pūjās in both traditions
Svetāmbara Tradition (1) Jala (Water) pājā (2) Candana (Sandal wood) pājā (3) Puşpa (Flower) pājā (4) Dhūpa(Incense) pūjā (5) Dīpaka(lamp) pājā (6) Akşata (Rice) pūjā (7) Naivedya (Sweets) pājā (8) Fala (Fruits) pūjā Note : Other functions are - (1) Darpaņa (Mirror) pājā : Jains see the reflection of the idol on the mirror by turning their own neck. At that time they think that the God is reflecting in their heart. (2) Camvara pūjā (3) Fan pūjā (4) Vandanā / Bhāva pājā (5) Aratī pājā-Specially performed in evening, symbolizes the joy after performing all religious activities. It destroys all karmas and brings happiness. Other Special pājā(a) Snātra pājā- It symbolises bathing of the new born tīrthankaras by gods and goddesses over Meru Mountain. It is always performed prior to any pūjā. This is birthday celebration of God. Digambars
