Overview
A puja thali (Sanskrit: पूजा थाली, romanised: Pūjā thālī, literally 'prayer plate') is a tray or large container on which materials used during worship are gathered and arranged. It plays an auspicious role in Hindu religious occasions, festivals, traditions and rituals, serving as the central vessel from which a devotee offers items to the deity.
Puja thalis are made in a variety of metals, including steel, gold, silver, brass and other metals. They may be round, oval or of other shapes, and are often finished with small engravings and decorative work. The choice of material and ornamentation can vary according to family custom, occasion and regional practice.
The thali is used to hold and present the articles required for puja, allowing the devotee to keep all offerings together while performing the ritual. Its decorated surface and form contribute to the ceremonial setting in which Hindu rites are conducted, whether at home shrines or during community festivals.
References
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article on Puja thali.