Q&A for How to Pray in Hindu Temples

Yes, it is appropriate to worship God in a sitting posture in Hinduism. Many rituals are done while seated.

You have to pray to different gods for different things. For example, the Goddess Lakshmi gives you wealth and prosperity. Stand before the idol, open your heart, and ask for what you truly want, but don't be greedy!

Typically, yes, but it should be evident upon entering the temple if there is a separation by gender.

Generally facing the deity, but there may be some differences based on the specific temple.

Unlike with Christianity and Islam, there are no hard and fast rules in Hinduism regarding prayer. One can chose to pray or not pray in a temple. There are several beautiful mantras/shlokas in the holy scriptures dedicated to each of the plethora of avatars of the Lord (such as Krishna, Shiva, Durga), which can either be chanted aloud or silently. This is known as Japa. One can also sing Bhajans (devotional songs) either in a group/indiviually. This is called Kirtana Prayer can lead to a meditative state of mind and is highly recommended to increase positivity and a sense of calm.

Of course! There are lots of Hindus in Africa too.

Stand straight but in a comfortable manner. People may close their eyes and pray or may listen to the priest's mantras. Don't fidget and move. Stand silently and respectfully. Observe the service. Do not talk to those around you. If you must, whisper.

The sacred vibe of the temple is meant to calm the mind. In order for the mind to calm, the senses need to be calmed. This is done through ensuring cleanliness. Since shoes are worn everywhere outside, they are dirty and bring along a foul smell, which can be a distraction to the senses.

In Hinduism, there isn't a lot that you have to do. If you want to give an offering, flowers, bananas, and traditional Indian desserts such as ladoos are often brought. Most temples have no specifics as to what you should bring, however, every god does have favorite items.

No, unless you would feel better having done so.

You can find it in many book shops, or from an online retailer such as Amazon.

It's more polite to the gods if you are, but it's not necessary.

You usually stand directly opposite the idol when praying. You are also generally told to sit down at the temple for a few minutes to contemplate God for a bit.

No, you don't.

Do your research and find which god most aligns with the path you want to follow.

Yes, you can go to mandir regardless of your religion as long as you follow the methods in the article to show proper respect. Talk to prayer leaders and members of the congregation, who will be more than happy to share with you about their worship and culture.

There are many different mantras, depending on which god you wish to honor.

Of course! God and the Gods are universal, and love everyone, so anyone can pray to them, just open your heart and mind. The Gods will welcome you with open arms, and will always listen to your prayers.

No, this Is Not appropriate. When going to a Hindu Temple, you need to be fully covered.

Yes. Most people prefer to wear traditional clothes but you don't have to. Keep it modest and cover yourself appropriately.

Ignore them. There is nothing wrong in how you pray to God. Everyone will pray differently. If their behavior is very irritating, visit the temple by yourself, if possible, until they stop bothering you.

Yes, you can perform puja in many temples. However, in many temple non-Hindus are not allowed, so you need to ask first and explain your intentions. Do puja with a pure mind. And eat only vegetarian food on the day when you want to perform puja.

Yes, A human must pray to the energy in the universe. It just has different forms.

Yes, that completely depends on you and your family. You will need to get permission by the country of residency.