Creating a sacred space for daily prayers and spiritual connection is a common practice in Indian homes. However, maintaining the sanctity of this space is equally important. Understanding the things you should never keep in a home mandir ensures that your place of worship radiates peace, positivity, and divine energy. This blog explores what not to place in your home temple, based on traditional beliefs, home temple Vastu, and spiritual guidelines.
1. Photographs of the Dead
One of the most commonly made mistakes is placing photos of deceased family members inside the pooja room. According to mandir dos and don’ts, this is strictly prohibited. The mandir is a space for divine presence, not ancestral remembrance. Instead, keep such photos in a separate place designated for remembrance rituals.
2. Broken or Damaged Idols
Never keep broken or chipped idols of deities in the pooja room. They are considered inauspicious and are believed to obstruct positive energy in pooja room. If an idol is damaged, respectfully immerse it in a river or follow traditional methods of disposal before replacing it.
3. Black Items or Dark-Colored Décor
Mandirs should evoke light and purity. Dark or black-colored items are often associated with negative energy. Opt for light shades like white, yellow, or saffron which align with home temple Vastu principles and invite spiritual vibrations.
4. Cash, Documents, or Valuables
A common mistake in many households is using the mandir as a storage area for valuables. Not only does this disrupt the sanctity, but it also goes against the spiritual purpose of the pooja room. A mandir is meant solely for devotion—not safekeeping.
5. Sharp Objects
Avoid keeping scissors, knives, or any other sharp objects inside or near the mandir. These items carry aggressive energy and contradict the peaceful nature of the sacred space. According to mandir dos and don’ts, such objects disturb concentration during prayers.
6. Clutter or Unused Items
A cluttered mandir can obstruct positive energy in pooja room. Always keep the space clean and organized. Remove empty incense boxes, dried flowers, or unused utensils. The cleaner the space, the more inviting it is to divine energies.
7. Artificial Flowers or Plastic Décor
While artificial flowers may seem convenient, they lack the freshness and life of natural offerings. Using real flowers enhances spiritual connection and aligns with traditional home temple Vastu suggestions. If natural flowers are not feasible daily, choose minimalistic decoration without plastic.
8. Images of Violence or War
Spiritual spaces should emit calm and peace. Any artwork or image that depicts violence, war, or anger—even if religious in context—should be kept out of the mandir. Instead, display serene images of deities in meditative or blessing poses.
9. Mirror Facing the Idols
Placing a mirror that directly reflects the deities is considered a Vastu defect. It may create energetic imbalances in the home. If you have a mirror nearby, ensure it doesn’t reflect the pooja area.
10. Non-Vegetarian Food or Alcohol (Even Symbolically)
Some people unknowingly place prasad or offerings near other household items like alcohol or meat. This is considered highly disrespectful. The mandir area should remain pure and vegetarian in its energy at all times.
Conclusion
Your pooja room is a spiritual sanctuary. By knowing the things you should never keep in a home mandir, you not only maintain its purity but also invite peace, prosperity, and divine grace into your home. Follow these age-old guidelines to respect traditions and align your sacred space with cosmic energies.
FAQs
Q1. Can I place more than one idol of the same deity in the mandir?
It’s advised to have only one idol of each deity. Multiple idols can cause energy imbalance, according to mandir dos and don’ts.
Q2. Is it okay to keep photos of all gods in the mandir?
Yes, but avoid mixing different cultures (e.g., Buddhist, Christian, Islamic) in a single pooja space to maintain spiritual focus and harmony.
Q3. How often should the mandir be cleaned?
The mandir should be cleaned daily, especially before lighting a diya or offering prayers. Regular cleaning maintains positive energy in pooja room.
Q4. Can mandir be placed in the bedroom?
Ideally no, but if unavoidable, use a curtain to separate the mandir from sleeping space and maintain sanctity.
Q5. What is the ideal direction to place a mandir?
According to home temple Vastu, the northeast direction is the most auspicious for placing a mandir.
