What Is A Prana Pratishtha

Rituals of Prana Pratishtha

The rituals typically involve veneration of the deity, chanting sanskrit mantras of specific frequencies, bathing and dressing the deity, and seating the deity in a place of comfort with the image's face oriented towards the east (signifying the sunrise).

The presiding priest(s) of the ceremony recite specific mantras and perform rituals to infuse the idol with prana (“life-force”). The rituals also include spraying scented water and garlanding with flowers.

The high point of the event is marked by the Chaksu͡unmilan ceremony (Sanskrit: "chakshu unmilan", opening of the divine eye). During this process, it is believed that the deity descends into the idol, making it a living representation. This radical transformation empowers the idol with an extraordinary ability to receive prayers and bestow blessings upon worshippers in their pursuit of spiritual transformation.

Prana Pratistha is the profound key ceremony that takes place during the establishment of a temple. In the rituals that occur during this ceremony, the deity is invited to be a resident in the idol and the “eye” of the deity is opened for the first time. Thereafter, one can feel the power and benefit of being in the presence of the living idol.

Mohanji explains the concept of “Prana Pratishtha” as an infusion of life-force in a statue or a form to make it into an idol, and enhancing this life-force in the idol using specific, powerful rituals.

Having the opportunity to attend a Prana Pratishtha ceremony is a rare opportunity, particularly if it is performed in the presence of a living Master, as the powerful energies that are induced during the ceremonies have a heightened impact on the spiritual transformation of all those in attendance.

Maintaining the life-force

During and beyond the ceremony, life-force in the deity is kept enhanced in the idol by Aartis (offering of the light for the veneration of the idol) and other forms of worship, such as purifying the idol with sanctified water, applying sandalwood paste, and covering the idol with clothes and ornamentation.

In some temples, the deity is ceremoniously retired at sunset just like a guest retiring to bed, and then woken up at sunrise with the chanting of morning mantras, aarti, bathing, offering fresh clothes, and offering special food “naivedyam” to the liking of the idol.

Purpose of the Prana Pratishtha

Mohanji explains that this energization of the deity is for the sake of transmission of energy to a person who comes near the deity, assisting with their spiritual transformation.

When the person comes near the deity, an energy transmission takes place in typically 8 to 40 seconds. This transfer helps to activate and rejuvenate the person.

Prana Pratishtha of Ram Mandir

The recent Prana Pratishtha of Ram Lalla (the boy form of Lord Ram) Idol at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, India on 22 January 2024, is one such instance of this profound process (for a video, click here). The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, participated in the majestic rituals performed by several priests that was watched by millions of people with awe and reverence.

The Prana Pratishtha of the deity weaves an everlasting tapestry of continuity, fostering a perpetual sense of sacredness within the consecrated space.

Attend the Prana Pratishtha in Virginia

The upcoming Prana Pratishtha of Shirdi Sai Baba, Lord Ganesha, Dattatreya, Hanuman, and a Shiva Linga at Mohanji Center of Benevolence in Virginia on April 21, 2024 is one such opportunity for people to be a part of the high energy environment that is in induced in the ceremony. It can help establish a deeper, timeless connection with Shirdi Sai Baba and the other consecrated deities to help in our spiritual rejuvenation and transformation.

We invite you to participate in bringing Baba's Presence to life for the benefit of all.