In the Hindu culture, conducting pooja is a part of the daily routine. Puja is ritualistic worship of the Divine performed to keep us in harmony with cosmic forces, thereby removing and overcoming the sorrows of life. As an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) staying abroad, if you are looking to maintain your traditional practices and perform pooja (worship) rituals, you must-have pooja items from India that can help you stay connected to Him by doing pooja the right way. On that note, this post here lists the top twelve must-have pooja items from India while staying abroad.

What are the 12 must have pooja items from India while staying abroad as an NRI?

Here are the thirteen essential pooja items or materials to conduct pooja daily or during any occasion or festival:

1. Idols or Pictures of Deities: Choose idols or pictures of deities that are important to your worship, such as Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Shiva, or any other preferred deities. For international shipping, small-sized idols or pictures of deities are generally permissible to be shipped, as long as they are not made from prohibited materials or contain any restricted substances. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can provide recommendations on sizes or materials of idols based on your requirements and tips for affordable international shipping. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or website and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
2. Incense Sticks: Incense sticks, or agarbattis, are commonly used to create a pleasant aroma during the pooja. They are available in various fragrances and are believed to purify the environment. Non-flammable incense sticks are generally allowed for shipping. However, it’s advisable to check if there are any restrictions on importing specific fragrances or quantities. Shoppin can advise you on rules and regulations for international shipping of incense sticks. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
3. Puja Thali: A puja thali is a decorative plate or tray used to hold various items during the pooja, such as a diya (lamp), incense sticks, flowers, and offerings. A complete brass or silver pooja thali set, including plates, bowls, and other utensils used in pooja rituals, can be shipped to maintain the traditional aesthetic of your worship space. A decorative puja thali is usually allowed for shipping, as long as it does not contain any restricted substances or sharp objects. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja thalis from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
4. Diya (Lamp): Diyas are small oil lamps typically made of brass or clay. Lighting a diya during the pooja signifies the presence of divine energy and is an essential part of the ritual. Brass or clay diyas are typically allowed, but it’s important to ensure that they are thoroughly cleaned and do not have any oil residue to comply with shipping regulations.  Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja diyas from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from AmazonIndia or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
5. Pooja Bell: A small brass bell, known as the ghanta, is used to produce a pleasant sound during the pooja. It is believed to help invoke divine blessings and drive away negative energies. Small brass bells used for pooja rituals are usually allowed for shipping. Ensure that it is securely packaged to prevent any damage during transit.  Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja bells from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Pepperfrywebsites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
6. Pooja Asan (Mat): A pooja asan is a small mat or cushion used to sit on during the pooja. It provides a clean and comfortable space for conducting the rituals. Lightweight and compact pooja asans (mats) are generally allowed for shipping. Look for foldable or rollable options that are easy to pack.  Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja mats from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
7. Rudraksha Mala, Bracelet, Pendant and Earrings: A Rudraksha mala is a string of beads made from the seeds of the Rudraksha tree. It is used for chanting mantras or counting repetitions during meditation or prayers. Apart from a Rudraksha mala, you may consider a Rudraksha bracelet for regular wear. It is believed to have spiritual and healing properties. If you prefer you can even buy Rudraksha as a pendant or earrings. Rudraksha malas and bracelets made from natural seeds are generally allowed to be shipped. It’s advisable to package them securely to prevent any damage during transit. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for malas or bracelets from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfrywebsites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
8. Pooja Decorative Items: Various decorative items like torans (door hangings), rangolis (decorative patterns), a complete aarti set, including aarti plate, camphor holder, incense stick holder, and bell, calendars and garlands can be used to enhance the aesthetics of your pooja space. If you have a japa mala (prayer beads), consider shipping a pouch or japa mala bag specifically designed for storing and carrying the mala. If you follow a specific puja calendar or almanac for conducting rituals on auspicious days, you can consider shipping a yearly calendar for reference. If you like banners, colorful banners or flags with religious symbols or mantras can be shipped to adorn your pooja area. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja decorations from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
9. Pooja Samagri Kits: Various pre-packaged pooja samagri kits are available in India, containing a variety of essential items for pooja rituals. A sacred thread, such as a Rakhi or Janeu, may be included in your pooja kit. It holds religious significance and can be tied on the wrist or worn around the neck.These kits can be shipped, but ensure they comply with customs regulations and restrictions. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja samagri kits from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. They will also advise you on shipping rules and regulations. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
10. Pooja Chowki (Low Stool): A small, decorative pooja chowki or low stool used for placing deities during the pooja can be shipped to create a dedicated space for your rituals. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja chowkis from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
11. Shankh (Conch Shell): Shankh, or conch shells, are often used in pooja rituals. Small-sized conch shells can generally be shipped, but it’s important to check if there are any restrictions on importing shells. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja shankh from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfrywebsites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.
12. Holders: Consider shipping a Kalash, a pot made of copper or silver, is used in various pooja ceremonies to hold holy water. Decorative pots or vessels used for holding sacred water, flowers, or other offerings during the pooja can be shipped to enhance the pooja experience. Decorative incense holders or agarbatti stands can be shipped to hold incense sticks during your pooja rituals. Small holders or diyas designed specifically for holding wicks dipped in ghee or oil during the pooja can be shipped for traditional lighting rituals. Shoppin‘s personal shopper can shop on your behalf for pooja Kalash, pots, stands, and any other holder from stores in India. They will also video call you from stores to show you options and ensure you have a satisfactory purchase experience. Alternatively, you can also shop from Amazon India or Flipkart or Pepperfry websites and get it forwarded by Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service.

Finally, the selection of items can vary based on personal preference and religious customs. Consider your specific traditions and beliefs while choosing the pooja items to create a meaningful and fulfilling worship experience. As always, research and comply with the specific customs regulations and restrictions of both India and your country of residence before shipping these items. Make sure to choose reputable and reliable shipping services that handle international shipments and are experienced in transporting delicate or religious items. For all your pooja needs from India, Shoppin‘s personal shopper can assist you in fulfilling your requirement.

How does Shoppin‘s personal shopping service assist in buying pooja items from India?

Shoppin‘s personal shopping service can provide you recommendations on pooja items for your specific needs and also get you the best deals from sellers in India. Shoppin‘s expert personal shoppers can visit local stores to showcase products via video call to ensure you get full satisfaction with your purchase. In case you face any payment issues, Shoppin offers to make the payment on your behalf. Along with that, by using Shoppin‘s consolidated parcel forwarding service, you can order a variety of products from different stores and get them consolidated into one box to save on shipping costs. Here’s how to use Shoppin‘s personal shopping service:

1. Message your shopping list items on WhatsApp.
2. Shoppin will assign a personal shopper in India to understand your requirements and fulfill your shopping list.
3. Personal shopper shops for all your items from multiple online and offline stores then inspects the condition of all products and shares details/photos with you.
4. All the products are consolidated, packed, and shipped to your home abroad.
5. Enjoy top quality pooja items from your shopping list without any hassle.

THE END.