Aarti
The aarti is one of the most important ceremonies in the Sanatan Dharma and is a form of worship. The aarti is performed by gently waving lit, ghee-soaked wicks in front of the statue of Bhagwan while a bell is rung, drums are pounded, and praises are sung to Him. Either the flame is waved softly around the Murti of Bhagwan while being held in both hands or in the right hand. The flame is waved seven times around Bhagwan's body, starting with four waves around his feet, two waves around his belly, one wave around his face, and four waves around his feet.
Flowers, dhoop (incense), and kapoor (camphor) are occasionally used as well. The flame is then offered to Bhagwan and then to His devotees. A conch shell is used to offer water to the flame once the aarti is finished.
All those present should be standing when the aarti is done, clapping, and singing along to the hymn thanking Bhagwan. As the goal of the aarti is to banish the darkness within with the image of Bhagwan, it is also crucial that the attention is fixed on following the flame around the deity.
The power of Bhagwan is transferred to the flame. The blessings of Bhagwan then transfer from the flame to the bhakta when they pass their hands over the flame with their palms facing down. The blessing can also be attained simply by gazing at the aarti flame.
Millions of divine beings visit Bhagwan during His aarti, making it one of the most significant occurrences of the day in a mandir.
The aarti is performed five times every day at the main Swaminarayan mandirs in India.
Mangala – Performed before sunrise, when Bhagwan wakes up
Shangar – Performed after Bhagwan is dressed
Rajbhog – Performed before lunch
Sandhya – Performed after sunset
Shayan – Performed before bedtime
Every one of the five aartis has a unique aarti song. However, Muktanand Swami's "Jay Sadguru Swami," is the most popular.
Adapted from: https://www.swaminarayan.faith/articles/aarti