Narikela

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Narikela, with literal meaning of coconut, is an essential element of several rituals associated with Hindus and the tradition of Hinduism. It is offered during pujas in the temples and at Hindu homes. A number of fishermen of India, irrespective of their religious affiliation and faith, offer it to the rivers and seas to propitiate the god Varuna, with a view to have bountiful catch. In Hindu wedding ceremonies, a narikela is placed over the opening of a pot, representing a womb. Hindus initiate beginning of any new activity by breaking of narikelas to ensure blessings of gods and completion of the activity without impediments. In tantric practices, narikelas are sometimes used as substitutes for human skulls.