Arti is derived from the Sanskrit word (aratika)which means ‘something that removes darkness (ratri). Hence the ritual of arti involves offering light to the deity in a ceremony. In the traditional ceremony, flower represents earth (solidity), water represents fluidity, ghee or lamp represents fire (heat), peacock fan represents air (movement) and yak-tail fan represents ether (space). The incense represents a purified state of mind and one’s intelligence is being offered.