Short Answer: Yes, you can do puja at home during your periods. There is no scriptural ban in authentic Hindu texts that prohibits women from performing home worship during menstruation.
What Do Scriptures Say About This?
The concept of ritual impurity (ashaucha) exists in some Dharmic texts, but it primarily applies to:
- Temple entry
- Touching idols or sacred offerings
- Community rituals
However, personal worship at home — especially mental prayer (manas puja) — is not forbidden.
The Bhagavad Gita (9.26) says:
“One who offers Me with devotion — a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or water — I accept.”
Notice: It doesn’t say “only if she’s pure” or “only outside her period.” It emphasizes devotion (bhakti), not physical state.
Why Do Some Families Say “No”?
This restriction comes from **cultural tradition**, not divine command:
- Fear-based belief: “She will anger the gods.”
- Misinterpretation: Equating bodily function with spiritual pollution.
- Patriarchal norms: Control over women’s bodies disguised as religion.
But menstruation is a **natural, life-giving process** — not impurity. In fact, many see it as a sign of **Shakti (divine feminine power)**.
What Do Modern Spiritual Leaders Say?
- Swami Sarvapriyananda: “True purity is of the mind. If a woman feels devotion, she should express it freely.”
- Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev: “Menstruation is not a weakness — it’s a time of heightened energy. Don’t stop connecting with the divine.”
- Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma): “I’ve seen women meditate, chant, and pray during periods with deep love. Their devotion is real.”
Practical Guidance: What Can You Do?
Choose what feels right for you:
| Approach | What You Can Do |
|---|---|
| Traditional | Avoid touching idols; perform silent prayer or listen to bhajans. |
| Moderate | Light a diya from a distance, chant softly, or read scriptures mentally. |
| Progressive | Perform full home puja — many modern households now allow this. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I enter my home temple during periods?
A: Depends on family tradition. If not allowed, you can still pray from outside or mentally. Your devotion is valid.
Q: Will doing puja during periods anger the gods?
A: No. Deities like Devi, Parvati, and Lakshmi are feminine energies. They understand your body. Sincerity matters more than ritual rules.
Q: Can I light a lamp or incense?
A: Yes. Lighting a diya is an act of knowledge and positivity. No scripture bans this.
Q: What if my family stops me?
A: Respect them, but also educate gently. Share quotes from gurus. Practice privately if needed — devotion begins in the heart.
Final Thought: Your Devotion Is Sacred
Menstruation is not a barrier to God — it’s a reminder of the divine feminine within you.
If doing puja brings you peace, strength, and connection, you have every right to do it — at home, in your own way.
🌸 You are not impure. You are powerful. And your devotion is welcome — always.
Related Articles
- Can Women Read Vishnu Sahasranamam During Periods?
- Can I Read Hanuman Chalisa on Bed?
- Is It a Sin to Eat Non-Veg on Ekadashi?
- Why Kartikeya Is Not Worshipped in North India?
We’d love to hear from you: Have you done puja during periods? Did you face judgment? Share your story below — let’s grow a more compassionate spiritual community.
Don’t forget to share this article on WhatsApp, Reddit, or with friends who need clarity.
