5 Benefits of Bhoomi Pooja: Empower the Ground Breaking Beginning

Introduction

Bhoomi Pooja is performed before starting the construction of a building or any other structure. Furthermore, Bhoomi Pooja is an important ceremony that seeks the blessings of the divine powers and ensures the success and prosperity of the construction project. Moreover, this ceremony is performed to sanctify the land and eradicate any negative energy or obstacles that may hinder the construction project.

The Story of King Sudhanva’s Bhoomi Pooja:

According to a popular story from Hindu mythology, King Sudhanva wanted to build a grand temple in Honour of Lord Vishnu. However, he faced several obstacles in the construction of the temple as the land he had selected was cursed by a sage named Vasistha.

Consequently, the sage, angered by the king’s past misdeeds, cursed the land in such a way that anyone who attempted to build on it would encounter failure and ruin.

Being a wise ruler, King Sudhanva sought the counsel of his advisors and priests, who recommended performing a Bhoomi Pooja. Consequently, the king heeded their advice and extended an invitation to Sage Vasistha to conduct the Pooja on the land.

Sage Vasistha agreed, and the Pooja was performed with all the necessary rituals and mantras.

After the Pooja, the sage was pleased with the king’s sincerity and devotion, and he lifted the curse from the land. The temple construction began, and it was completed without any further obstacles.

Moreover, the grand temple stood as a testament to the king’s unwavering devotion and the remarkable power of Bhoomi Pooja to eradicate obstacles and guarantee the resounding success of a construction project.

Significance of Bhoomi Pooja

Furthermore, Bhoomi Pooja holds significant importance in Hinduism as it is conducted to invoke the blessings of the earth goddess, Bhoomi Devi.

In Hindu mythology, the earth is considered to be a divine entity. Moreover, it is worshipped as a mother who provides us with everything we need to survive.

By performing a Bhoomi Pooja, we not only express our gratitude towards the earth goddess but also earnestly seek her blessings for the prosperous realization of the construction project.

Apart from this, Bhoomi Pooja is also performed to ensure that the construction project is free from any negative energy or obstacles.

Negative energy can be present in the land due to various reasons:

Past events that occurred on the same land.
The presence of polluted water sources nearby the land.
Any other source of pollution like dump yards.
Any other nearby places associated with negative energy like cemeteries or burial grounds.

By performing a Bhoomi Pooja, we can remove this negative energy and ensure that the construction project is free from any obstacles.

Astronomy of Bhoomi Pooja

The astronomy of Bhoomi Pooja holds paramount significance within the ceremony. It encompasses the meticulous selection of an auspicious date and time, contingent upon the alignment of planets and stars in the celestial realm.

The ceremony is usually performed during the day, between sunrise and sunset, when the energy levels are high.

The selection of an auspicious date and time for the ceremony is usually done by an astrologer.

The astrologer selects a date and time when the sun is in a favourable position, such as when it is in its own sign or exalted.

The zodiac sign of the person performing the ceremony is also considered in selecting an auspicious date and time.

Each zodiac sign is associated with different qualities and attributes, and the astrologer selects a date and time that is favourable for the person performing the ceremony.

Benefits of Bhoomi Pooja:

Bhoomi Puja has many benefits, some of which are listed below:

Ensures success and prosperity: Through the performance of Bhoomi Pooja, we actively seek the blessings of divine powers, guaranteeing the triumph and prosperity of the construction endeavor. This sacred ceremony is believed to imbue the land with positive energy while eliminating any negative forces or hindrances that may impede the project’s success.
Creates a positive environment: Furthermore, Bhoomi Pooja serves the purpose of purifying the land and cultivating a positive environment. By effectively eliminating any negative energy or obstacles, the ceremony establishes a propitious atmosphere that greatly facilitates the construction project.
Brings harmony with nature: Additionally, Bhoomi Pooja is conducted to invoke the blessings of the earth goddess and foster harmony between the construction project and nature. Moreover, this sacred ceremony ensures that the project aligns with the laws of nature and the universe, promoting a balanced and sustainable approach.
Enhances the safety of the construction project:Through the practice of Bhoomi Pooja, we actively seek the blessings of divine powers, safeguarding the construction project. This ceremony establishes a positive environment while eliminating any negative energy or obstacles that could jeopardize the project’s safety.
Improves the quality of construction: Bhoomi Pooja is performed to ensure that the construction project is free from any negative energy or obstacles. The ceremony creates a positive environment that is conducive to the construction project and improves the quality of construction.

What are the requirements for Bhoomi Pooja?

Here’s a list of articles required for Bhoomi Pooja –

Samagri/ Things required	Quantity
Kumkum (red sindoor)	100 grams
Turmeric powder	100 grams
Camphor /Karpuram	1 packet
Sandalwood powder	1 box
Incense (agarbatti) sticks	1 packet
Fruits	5 types 2 each
Beetle nuts	100 grams
Beetle leafs	30
Coconuts	5
Rice	4 lb
Flowers	3 bunches

Other requirements for this pooja are –

1 set of Navaratnas (9 types of gems that include Ruby, Pearl, Red Coral, Emerald, Yellow Sapphire, Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Hessonite, and Cat’s Eye ), a packet of dry dates, 5 Lemon (green limes), a set of Pancha Lohas (5 metals), and 2 packets of Nava Dhanyam (9 types of seeds).
Moreover, one also needs coins- Quarters 40, a 1/2 meter long white cloth, a matchbox, a lamp, cotton wicks, oil, 10 panchpatras, udharini.
A plate, a Kalash ( kalasam), 5 bricks, a bell, a bedsheet, 4 plastic plates, a gods picture and 5 foam cups etc.

The cost of performing a Bhoomi Pooja in India :

Item/Service	Estimated Cost (in INR)	Details
Samagri	5,000 – 10,000	The cost of materials such as flowers, coconut, fruits, and other Pooja items
Priest(s)	2,000 – 5,000	The cost of hiring a priest or a group of priests
Travel, accommodation, and food for priest(s)	5,000 – 10,000	If the priest(s) are travelling from another location, there may be additional costs for their travel, accommodation, and food.
Donation to charity	Varies	Some families may choose to donate to a charity or a temple as part of the Bhoomi Pooja ceremony. Additionally, the amount of the donation can vary depending on the family’s budget and preference.
Total	12,000 – 25,000	The total cost of performing a Bhoomi Pooja can range from INR 12,000 to INR 25,000, depending on the factors mentioned above.

These costs are only estimates and may vary depending on several factors such as location, type of Pooja, and availability of resources. The actual cost of performing a Bhoomi Pooja may be higher or lower than the estimated cost provided above. It is recommended to consult with a local priest or expert to get a more accurate estimate for the cost of performing a Bhoomi Pooja in your area.

Things to keep in mind before Bhoomi Pooja:

Clean the surroundings thoroughly before the bhoomi pooja to maintain purity and sanctity.
Level the ground to create a flat surface for the bhoomi pooja proceedings.
Remove any obstacles like rocks or thorns that may hinder the pooja process.
The land towards the northeast should be lower than the southwest to promote positive energy flow.
Sprinkle Gaumutra or Ganga Jal on the land before the pooja to purify the environment.
Moreover, tying a cow on the land is considered auspicious, as they are believed to bring good fortune.
Additionally, the presence of the house owner and their spouse is required for the bhoomi pooja to be considered complete.
According to Vaastu, the northeast direction is the most suitable for performing bhoomi pooja.
Prepare a pit and have the couple face east for the puja as it is believed to be the direction of prosperity.
Keeping a silver Naag & Naagin for the pooja is considered lucky and believed to bring prosperity.
It is important to worship the mason who digs and covers the hole and the tools they use for their contribution.
The tools used by the mason should also be worshipped to invoke blessings for the construction process.

Steps to perform Bhoomi Pooja:

Step 1: Selection of an auspicious date and time

The first step in the Bhoomi Pooja ceremony is the selection of an auspicious date and time. Furthermore, the date and time are usually chosen by an astrologer or priest based on the principles of Vedic astrology. Additionally, the selection ensures that the ceremony is performed at the most favorable time for the construction project. The ceremony is usually performed during the day, preferably during the auspicious hours of the day.

Step 2: Ganesh Pooja

The second step is the Ganesh Pooja, which is performed to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, who is believed to remove any obstacles and ensure the success of the project. Additionally, the puja involves the chanting of mantras and the offering of flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Ganesha. Moreover, the priest or Brahmin performing the puja recites the Ganesh Atharvashirsha, a hymn dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and offers Durva grass to the deity. The idol of Lord Ganesha is then bathed with water, milk, curd, honey, and ghee.

Step 3: Kalash Pooja

The third step, Furthermore, the Kalash Pooja, focuses on purifying the construction site. In this step, a Kalash, typically made of copper or brass, is filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut. The Kalash is revered through the recitation of mantras and the presentation of flowers and other sacred offerings. The priest or Brahmin then places the Kalash at the site where the construction will take place. The Kalash is believed to purify the site and create a positive environment for the construction project.

Step 4: Vaastu Pooja

The fourth step is the Vastu Pooja, which is performed to ensure that the construction project is in harmony with nature and the environment. Additionally, the puja involves the chanting of mantras and the offering of flowers and other materials to the deities associated with the directions and elements. Moreover, the priest or Brahmin performs the puja by placing a statue or picture of the Vastu Purusha, a deity associated with the construction of buildings, at the site. The priest then recites the Vastu Purusha Mantra, which is believed to invoke the blessings of the deity.

Step 5: Bhoomi Pooja

The fifth step is the Bhoomi Pooja, the main ceremony of the Bhoomi Puja ritual. Additionally, the ceremony involves breaking the ground with a special spade or axe, symbolizing the project’s commencement. Furthermore, the ground is purified through the chanting of mantras and the offering of flowers and other materials. Moreover, the priest or Brahmin recites the Bhoomi Mantra, invoking blessings from the earth goddess for project success and prosperity.

Step 6: Homa

The sixth step is the Homa, which involves the offering of ghee, wood, and other materials to the fire. Furthermore, the Homa is performed to create positive energy and purify the environment. Additionally, the priest or Brahmin performs the Homa by reciting mantras and offering materials into the fire. Moreover, the Homa is believed to create a divine atmosphere and dispel any negative energies that may be present at the construction site.

Step 7: Prasad distribution

The final step of the Bhoomi Pooja ceremony is the distribution of Prasad. Prasad is a blessed food item that is offered to the deities during the puja. It is believed to have spiritual and medicinal properties and is distributed to all those present at the ceremony. Additionally, the Prasad is usually made of sweet ingredients like jaggery, coconut, and sesame seeds. Moreover, the distribution of Prasad signifies the end of the ceremony and the beginning of the construction project.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bhoomi Pooja is a sacred and significant ceremony that has been performed for centuries in India.

The ceremony is performed before the construction of any building or structure to seek the blessings of the earth goddess, create a positive environment, and ensure the success and prosperity of the project.

It involves several steps, including the selection of an auspicious date and time, Ganesh Pooja, Kalash Pooja, Vastu Pooja. Additionally, the ceremony is performed with great devotion and reverence, utilizing natural materials and modern techniques.

Moreover, Bhoomi Pooja is integral to Indian culture, emphasizing harmony with nature and the environment for sustainable development. By performing the Bhoomi Pooja, one can ensure the safety and well-being of the workers and occupants of the building while contributing to the sustainable development of society.