Puja may also include circumambulation of a statue or temple (pradakshina) and, in less elaborate rituals, an offering (bali) and a sacred fire offering (homa). Depending on the season, special rituals can also be performed according to the festival calendar, such as waving to the gods or playing games.

An important form of puja in Indian temples and personal worship is arati, the waving of lighted lamps in front of an image of a deity or person to be worshipped. The ritual involves the worshipper turning the lamp clockwise three or more times while praying or singing. In Indian homes, arati is a common feature of ceremonies given to the most honored guests. It is a part of many household rituals.

Some powers can be performed by the worshipper alone, while others require the services of a qualified person, such as a priest. Puja can be performed for a specific purpose or as an act of devotion.