A Lota is a small, usually spherical utensil made of brass or copper used to carry small quantities of water.
The Lota has a spherical bottom that curves into a neck, and the top of the neck flares out to form a rim. Its shape is such that it fits into the palm of the hand very well and makes carrying and pouring liquids very easy. The size of the opening and inner contours of a Lota are extremely well defined, which helps the easy cleaning of the inside and outside.
A Lota is used to drink water, or to carry water to wash hands. Some Lotas may also be equipped with a spout. Lotas made of copper are used to store the holy water (water from the river Ganges) during worship. It is used in religious ceremonies too, when it is smeared with sandal paste, kum kum (vermillion powder) and yellow turmeric powder.
A Lota is usually made of brass, copper, aluminium, or silver. Nowadays, it is available in stainless steel too in various finishes and sometimes the exterior may be clad with copper.
Stainless steel Lota