Ark Vivah

Ark Vivah: Meaning and Significance

Ark Vivah is a unique and significant ritual in Hinduism performed for individuals who have Manglik Dosha (Mangal Dosha) in their horoscope. This dosha occurs when Mars (Mangal) is positioned in certain houses of the birth chart, which can lead to challenges in marital life. Ark Vivah, also known as a symbolic marriage to a banana tree (Ark tree), is conducted to nullify the negative effects of this dosha.

Steps and Procedure for Ark Vivah

1. Preparation:

   • Consultation with an Astrologer: Before performing the Ark Vivah, it is essential to consult a knowledgeable astrologer to confirm the presence of Manglik Dosha and determine the auspicious date for the ritual.
   • Location: This pooja is often performed in a temple or at home in the presence of a priest.
   • Gathering Materials: Collect items such as flowers, fruits, betel leaves, betel nuts, turmeric, sandalwood paste, incense sticks, ghee, a banana plant (Ark tree), and a traditional wedding outfit for the individual.

2. Setting up the Altar:

   • Placing the Ark Tree: Plant a banana tree (Ark tree) in a clean and sacred area where the ritual will be performed.
   • Decorating the Tree: Decorate the banana tree with flowers, mango leaves, and turmeric paste to symbolize the bride or groom.

3. Invocation (Avahanam):

   • Ganesh Pooja: Begin by invoking Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles.
   • Kalash Sthapana: Place a kalash (pot filled with water) with a coconut on top, symbolizing the presence of the deities.

4. Sankalp (Resolution):

   • Taking the Sankalp: The individual performing the Ark Vivah takes a vow (sankalp) stating the purpose of the ritual and seeking blessings to nullify the effects of Manglik Dosha.

5. Main Ritual:

   • Worship of the Ark Tree: The priest chants specific mantras and guides the individual to offer flowers, fruits, betel leaves, betel nuts, turmeric, and sandalwood paste to the Ark tree.
   • Mangal Mantras: Chant mantras dedicated to Mars (Mangal) to seek his blessings and to pacify the malefic effects of the dosha.
   • Symbolic Marriage: The individual performing the ritual symbolically marries the banana tree. This involves performing all traditional wedding rituals such as applying sindoor (vermillion), tying the mangalsutra (sacred thread), and taking vows around the sacred fire (Agni).

6. Havan (Fire Ritual):

   • Setting up the Havan Kund: Prepare the havan kund (sacrificial fire pit) and light the fire.
   • Offering Ahuti: Offer ghee, rice, and special herbs into the fire while chanting specific Vedic mantras to appease Mars and seek divine blessings.

7. Arati (Waving of Lamps):

   • Performing Arati: Light the lamp and perform arati by waving it in front of the Ark tree in a circular motion while singing devotional songs.

8. Prasad Distribution:

   • Offering Food: Offer cooked food, fruits, and sweets to the deity and the Ark tree.
   • Distributing Prasad: After the pooja, distribute the prasad among the family members and guests.

Benefits of Ark Vivah

1. Mitigation of Manglik Dosha: The ritual helps in reducing the malefic effects of Manglik Dosha.
2. Harmonious Marital Life: It is believed to bring harmony and peace in married life.
3. Health and Well-being: Promotes physical and mental well-being by mitigating the dosha's negative influences.
4. Prosperity and Success: Invokes blessings for material prosperity and success in personal endeavors.
5. Spiritual Growth: Regular practice enhances spiritual growth and devotion.
6. Family Unity: Celebrating the ritual with family members fosters unity and togetherness.

Ark Vivah is an important and symbolic ritual that helps in balancing the cosmic influences and mitigating the negative effects of Manglik Dosha in one's horoscope. By performing this ritual with devotion and proper procedure, individuals seek to align themselves with the cosmic energies for a more harmonious and prosperous marital life.