The aarti thali

An aarti thali is a plate, usually of brass, silver or steel, on which the items for the aarti are placed. You do not need a special one; a clean plate will do.

• A lamp (diya) with ghee or oil and a cotton wick. A single lamp is enough; some use five (panchmukhi). The lamp stands for light, knowledge and the removal of darkness.
• Camphor (kapoor), which burns away without leaving ash, and is said to stand for the ego melting in devotion.
• Incense and a stand for it.
• Flowers and petals, which are offered after the aarti.
• Kumkum (roli), turmeric and rice for the tilak mark on the deity and those present.
• A small pot of water and a spoon, to sprinkle after the aarti.
• A bell held in the other hand.
• Prasad (sweet or fruit) on a separate plate.

Cleaning

Wash the thali after use, and keep it only for puja. If the ghee lamp leaves soot, wipe it with a cloth before washing.

This page describes common practice in plain words. Families and temples differ, and your own tradition comes first. We do not print the words of the aartis and chalisas here; use a printed book from your family or temple for the exact text.