Vishwakarma Puja is also celebrated with great enthusiasm in Nepal, especially among those involved in the fields of craftsmanship, engineering, and construction. The festival follows a similar pattern to its celebration in India, with some regional variations. Here is information about Vishwakarma Puja in Nepal, including its date, time, rituals, and significance:
Date: In Nepal, Vishwakarma Puja is typically celebrated on the last day of the month of Bhadra in the Nepali calendar, which usually falls in September.
Time: The timing of the puja is typically determined based on the local customs and astrological calculations. It is usually performed during the morning hours.
Rituals:
- Cleaning and Decoration: Just like in India, workplaces, factories, offices, and tools are thoroughly cleaned and decorated with flowers, banana leaves, and colorful rangoli patterns.
- Idol or Image of Lord Vishwakarma: An idol or image of Lord Vishwakarma is installed in the workplace or factory and adorned with flowers, garlands, and traditional ornaments.
- Offerings: Devotees offer fruits, sweets, coconuts, and other traditional offerings to Lord Vishwakarma.
- Puja and Mantras: Priests and devotees perform puja, recite mantras, and offer prayers to Lord Vishwakarma, seeking his blessings for success, prosperity, and safety in their work.
- Aarti: Aarti, a ceremonial prayer, is performed, and devotees sing hymns and devotional songs in praise of Lord Vishwakarma.
- Distribution of Prasad: After the puja is complete, prasad (consecrated food) is distributed among the workers and employees.
- Craftsmen and Artisans: Artisans and craftsmen may also perform special rituals to honor their tools, equipment, and machines.
Significance:
- Blessings for Work: Vishwakarma Puja in Nepal, as in India, is celebrated to seek the blessings of Lord Vishwakarma for success, safety, and prosperity in one’s work and profession, especially among craftsmen, artisans, and industrial workers.
- Safety: It is believed that performing this puja helps ensure the safety of workers and protects them from accidents and mishaps.
- Unity and Harmony: The festival fosters unity and harmony among workers and employees, as they come together to celebrate and seek blessings.
- Cultural Significance: Vishwakarma Puja is culturally significant in Nepal and reflects the importance of skilled labor and craftsmanship in society.
- Industrial Growth: It is also seen as a way to promote industrial growth and development by seeking divine intervention and guidance.
In Nepal, Vishwakarma Puja is an important cultural and religious event celebrated with devotion and dedication, and it plays a significant role in acknowledging the skills and hard work of the workforce in various sectors.
Vishwakarma Pooja in Melbourne