What is prasad? Meaning and importance in Hindu worship
Prasad is food or an offering that is first offered to the deity and then shared with devotees. Learn what it means and how it is traditionally received.
Updated 25 Oct 2026
Prasad (also written prasada) is a Sanskrit word that means grace or a gift of mercy. In Hindu worship it is the food or offering that is first presented to the deity and then returned to the devotee as a blessing.
Why is prasad offered?
- To thank the deity before we eat or enjoy anything ourselves.
- To receive a blessing, so that the food becomes a reminder of devotion rather than just a meal.
- To share that blessing with family, friends and neighbours.
What can prasad be?
Prasad differs from temple to temple and from one tradition to another. It can be a sweet, fruit, dry fruits, tulsi leaves, flowers, sandal paste or cooked food. Many families also keep a small portion of prasad in the home shrine.
How is prasad received?
- Receive it with clean hands and respect.
- Eat it fully and do not waste it.
- Share a little with others so that the blessing is shared.
Prasad from Vrindavan
Vrindavan, the land of Shri Krishna, has many temples such as Banke Bihari, Radha Raman, ISKCON, Prem Mandir and Radha Vallabh. Devotees who cannot travel often order a prasad pack in the name of a temple so that they can keep it at home. You can browse prasad packs and boxes on our prasad page.
