Saffron / కుంకుమపువ్వు

Saffron (kesar) holds significant importance in puja ceremonies, and it is considered as one of the most auspicious ingredients used in rituals, Saffron is mixed with sandalwood paste to make a tilak, which is applied on the forehead of the deity or the person performing the puja. The tilak is believed to activate the third eye chakra and awaken divine consciousness. Saffron is added to the Prasad (offering of food) that is distributed among the devotees after the puja. It is believed to purify the mind and body and remove negativity.