Early morning light filters in as the household altar is gently dusted off—this simple act sets the tone for Smartist puja, blending reverence with non-dual insight. A bowl of clean water stands by the images of Shiva, Vishnu, Shakti, Ganesha, Surya and Skanda, each deity seen as a unique window onto the one Brahman.

By and large, the ritual follows these steps:

1. Preparation and Purification
   – Sweep or wash the puja space, then sprinkle water or waft incense smoke around.
   – Arrange murtis or framed icons on a raised platform, draped in fresh cloth.

2. Invocation (Avahana)
   – Light a ghee lamp or eco-friendly diya, inviting the divine presence.
   – Ring a bell softly and let the gentle mantra of “Om” resonate, touching base with the ultimate reality.

3. Offerings (Upacharas)
   – Water for sipping, washing the feet of the deities, and symbolic pouring (achamana).
   – Fresh flowers or garlands, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of the world.
   – Incense and camphor for fragrance, linking breath to spirit.
   – Fruit, rice, sweets or dosa batter as naivedya—food that transforms into prasadam after blessing.

4. Mantra Recitation and Meditation
   – Gayatri or simple one-line stotras are chanted, acknowledging each aspect of the divine.
   – A moment of silent reflection follows, realizing that the worshipper, the act of worship, and the deity are one and the same.

5. Arati and Prasadam
   – A small lamp or camphor flame is circled before the murtis in a smooth, clockwise motion.
   – Fruit or sweets are distributed among family members, sharing blessings “straight from the source.”

In today’s world—where streaming Navaratri pujas or using solar-powered lamps is becoming the norm—Smartist worship stays firmly rooted in the idea that every heartfelt gesture can reveal the boundless Brahman. A daily puja isn’t just ticking off a spiritual to-do list; it’s an invitation to experience unity beneath the rich tapestry of forms.