HOW IS THE AGNIHOTRA CEREMONY PERFORMED?
• The fire kund is placed on a stone to prevent its contact from the ground.
• The performer needs to sit facing the east direction in the morning and west direction in the evening.
• Now, the dried cow-dung cakes are placed at the bottom of the pyramid after applying a generous amount of ghee.
• The cow-dung cakes are placed in such a way that air passes through them.
• Then the fire is light up in the pyramid. Initially, camphor is used for igniting the fire.
• A fan is used to kindle the fire. However, blowing from the mouth is prohibited.
• Later on, the small portions of rice are mixed with ghee and kept in a separate plate.
• At the exact time of the sunrise/ sunset, the small portion of rice is offered in the pyramid while chanting the mantra. The rice is offered in the flame saying ‘svaha’. Again a small portion is taken and offered in the flame to complete the offerings.
• Thereafter, facing the lord sun, a humble obeisance is offered. The performer bows down to the fire as a sign of respect to all the 5 elements of nature.
• The performer has to sit near the pyramid till the fire calms down and there is no smoke.
• It is advisable to leave the ashes in the pyramid till next Agnihotra to enhance the potency of the ashes.
• The ash is further removed in a natural container and used as protective ash, medicine, and fertilizer in the garden.
The spiritual practice of Agnihotra will connect the performer to the universal radiant energy of the powerful Sun. The performer becomes positive and confident. Regular practice of Agnihotra creates a protective field around the performer which could extend up to several kilometres.
