SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PURNA KUMBHAM :

Purnakumbha literally means a "full pitcher" (Purna = full, Kumbha = pitcher). The Purnakumbha is a pitcher full of water, with fresh leaves of the mango tree and a coconut (Sriphala) placed on the top. The pitcher may be made of mud, brass, copper or silver. Sometimes the pot is decorated with designs like Ashtalakshmis or a Swasthika.

Purnam means completion and the significance is that the endeavour undertaken must be successfully completed. It is a main part of all Hindu rituals. It is used in Grahapravesha ( house warming ceremony ), weddings and all auspicious functions.
When used for pujas, white or red thread is tied around the pitcher in beautiful, intricate, geometrical patterns. Very often the deity is invoked in the purnakumbha.
During pujas, mantras are chanted which charge the water with divine power and the water is used for “ abhisheka” or as prasadam to the devotees.

Learned men and saints have identified the Absolute Truth. So we acknowledge their greatness and pay them our respect by offering Purnakumbha at the entrance. In some places it is also used to welcome dignitaries in the Hindu way.

The pot symbolizes Mother Earth, water is the life-giver, the green leaves stand for life and coconut is the “ shriphala”, the divine consciousness. The pot symbolizes Mother Earth. The water symbolizes the primordial water from which the entire creation emerged. It is the divine essence and gives life to all. It is the soul filled with love and compassion, abundance and hospitality. Creation is represented by the leaves and coconut is the symbol of God-head.

Thus the purnakumbha has come to be considered as an object symbolizing God in our culture.