Looking at the relation between art and the senses, Puja is a documentary video that takes an intimate and educational look at the practice of Hindu worship and ritual, in particular the practice of Lakshmi Narayan Puja and subsequent practices Vishnu Sahasranama and Aarti.
Lakshmi Narayan Puja or Pooja is one particular form of worship within Hinduism. The ritual itself is very sensual, meaning it makes full use of the senses;seeing or Darsan, (seeing the divine) touching, smelling and hearing. Like art, it may appeal to our senses and these senses as well as our emotions may become engaged.
Lakshmi Narayan Puja, Vishnu Sahasranama and Aarti are performed in sequence and in reverence of Lord Vishnu. Lakshmi Narayan Puja is carried out in order to attain prosperity, spiritual prosperity and to alleviate troubles so the devotee may succeed in starting a spiritual path or business. (Narayan is another name for Vishnu and Lakshmi is his divine spouse) After Puja, Vishnu Sahasranama follows whereby the devotees recite the thousand holy names of Vishnu. Aarti is then performed where a song of praise is sung, offerings are made and bells are rung. (A variety of other ceremonial aspects may take place and be included)
Footage shot at Shri Lakshmi Narayan Mandir - Riverside, Ca. 2009/2010