How do we do pūjā for a new car or bike — and why the lemons under the tyres?

a short Gaṇeśa pūjā with svastika, coconut and āratī is common; the lemons are a folk custom for a safe start — safe driving matters most.

Vāhana pūjā is done at temples or at home on the day of delivery or the next good day. Draw a svastika with kumkum or turmeric on the bonnet or front, tie a small garland or mauli, offer flowers, light camphor and do āratī, and break a coconut in front (many temples have a spot for this). Some keep a small Gaṇeśa or Hanumān image on the dashboard. Popular places include local Hanumān and Gaṇeśa temples; in the South many go to their family temple.

The four lemons placed under the tyres, crushed as the car first moves, are a folk custom for removing obstacles and nazar. It is harmless if your family likes it, but not required. Some families circle a coconut or pumpkin instead.

The best blessing for a vehicle is responsible use: seat belts and helmets, no drinking and driving, regular servicing and patience on the road. Say a short prayer before long journeys — and drive as though everyone else is family.

Vāhana pūjā: svastika, coconut, āratī · Source: common temple and family practice

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