Ayushya Homam (also Ayush Homam) is a fire ritual dedicated to Ayur Devata — the deity of longevity — performed to bless an individual with long life, good health, and protection from disease and premature death. It is most commonly performed on the birthday (especially the first birthday and every subsequent year), and also as a remedy for health concerns or when the astrologer recommends it during a challenging Dasha period.

Mantras Used in Ayushya Homam

The primary mantra is the Ayushya Suktam from the Atharva Veda, which invokes divine forces for longevity. The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra (the death-conquering mantra of Shiva) is also chanted. Additionally, the person's Nakshatra Devata (presiding deity of their birth star) is propitiated with specific Nakshatram mantras. The total mantra count (Japa) is typically 1,008 or 10,008 repetitions.

Required Items

The main materials include: ghee (clarified butter), sesame seeds, rice, barley, mustard seeds, Durva grass, specific herbs associated with longevity (like Brahmi, Ashwagandha if available), 9 types of grains, flowers, mango wood, Peepal wood, and Palasha wood for the Homam. The family also arranges fruits, coconut, betel leaves, and a new cloth for the person.

Duration and Occasions

Ayushya Homam takes 2–3 hours. It is commonly performed at home or in a temple. On the first birthday (Namakaranam year) it is considered especially important. Many Telugu families perform it on every birthday as a gift of divine protection. Shashtipoorti (60th birthday) and Shatabhishekam (80th birthday) include elaborate Ayushya Homam as the centerpiece.