Wooden Kolam Pooja Chowki - 18x18x6.5-Inches Red Bajot

A chowki, also called a bajot, is a low wooden platform used to raise deity idols, a kalash or a puja thali off the floor during ritual. It is what a mandir sits on, and it works equally well as a standalone altar.

This one carries a kolam pattern — the geometric rice-flour design drawn at south Indian thresholds each morning, said to invite prosperity into the home. Hand-painted in white and red on 18-inch square mango wood.

Details

• 18" × 18" × 6.5"
• Weight 3.04 kg
• Material: solid mango wood
• Finish: hand-embossed kolam painting in white and red
• Handcrafted in India

When it is used

• Satyanarayan Puja, where the deity is seated on the chowki for the ceremony
• Varalakshmi Vratam and Lakshmi Puja
• Golu and Navratri displays, where several chowkis are stacked into steps
• Ganesh Chaturthi, as the seat for the idol
• Griha pravesh
• Outside ritual: a meditation seat, a plant stand or a low accent table

The two options

Base unit is the chowki on its own. With cover adds a fitted padded cover cut to these dimensions, which protects the painted top and finishes the setup for a ceremony.

Care

Wipe with a dry cloth. Keep out of direct sunlight. Avoid standing water or oil from diyas directly on the painted surface — this is what the cover is for.

Shipping and assurance

Free insured shipping across the USA and Canada. Ships from San Ramon, California, usually within one business day. If it arrives damaged, send us a photo and we will resolve it — transit damage is covered.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a chowki and a bajot?
Nothing — they are two names for the same thing. Chowki is more common in north India, bajot in the west. Both mean a low platform for ritual use.

What does the cover option add?
A fitted padded cover cut to this chowki's dimensions. It protects the painted top when idols and lamps sit directly on it, and gives the setup a finished look for a ceremony.

Can I put a lit diya on it?
Yes, but use the cover. An open flame directly on the hand-painted surface will mark it over time.

Will it hold a mandir?
Yes. At 18 inches square it takes a compact mandir, and it is regularly used as the riser under one. For a 22" or 24" wide mandir, choose a wider bajot instead.

Does it need assembly?
No. It arrives as a single solid piece, ready to use.

What is it made of?
Solid mango wood, hand-painted white and red with a kolam motif with embossed detailing. Painted by hand in India, so small variations are normal.

How do I care for it?
Wipe with a dry cloth. Keep it out of direct sunlight so the painted finish holds its colour, and avoid water or solvent cleaners on the hand-painted surface.

What if it arrives damaged?
Shipping is insured and we cover transit damage. Photograph the damage and email contact@urliutsav.com and we will replace it or make it right.

Can I return it?
Yes, within 30 days, in original condition and packaging. Return shipping is arranged and paid by the customer, so for an item this size please measure your space before ordering.

See the full range of home temples, bajots and chowkis in our Home Temples & Mandirs collection.