❓ Why do Hindus perform puja with specific items like flowers, incense and food?

Puja items (upachara) represent different aspects of devotional worship and have both symbolic and practical significance. According to the Vishnu Purana, the sixteen traditional items (shodasha upachara) correspond to different ways of honoring and connecting with the divine.

The scientific rationale includes:

• Flowers and incense create an uplifting atmosphere through natural aromatherapy
• The act of gathering and arranging items cultivates mindfulness
• Food offerings remind us to see sustenance as sacred

Modern research confirms that ritual actions with physical objects can reduce anxiety and increase focus. The systematic nature of puja helps create a dedicated time and space for spiritual practice in our busy lives.