As the nation gears up for Deepawali, one of the most prominent rituals observed by millions of devotees is the worship of Lakshmi Ma. This festival of lights is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and is a time to seek blessings from the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. Lakshmi Puja, the central event of Deepawali, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, with rituals passed down through generations.
Significance of Lakshmi Puja
Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is believed to visit homes on the night of Deepawali, blessing families with abundance and good fortune for the coming year. According to Hindu mythology, it is said that on this day, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan). Therefore, Deepawali is regarded as the most auspicious time to worship her.
The act of performing Lakshmi Puja on Deepawali is not just about seeking material wealth, but also about invoking positive energy and ensuring peace and prosperity in one’s home. Many believe that Lakshmi visits clean and well-lit houses, making it essential to tidy up and light oil lamps to welcome her presence.
Lakshmi Puja is traditionally performed during the Pradosh Kaal, which falls after sunset. Devotees start by cleaning their homes and decorating their entrances with colorful rangolis and fresh flowers. Doorways are adorned with torans made of marigolds and mango leaves, symbolizing purity and freshness.
Step-by-Step Puja Process
Preparation of the Puja Area: A clean and serene place is selected for the puja. A murti or picture of Goddess Lakshmi, often accompanied by Bhagwan Ganesha (who is worshipped for wisdom and the removal of obstacles), is placed on a decorated platform.
Lighting Diyas: Small earthen lamps, or diyas, are lit around the house, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. These lamps are also placed in the puja area to invite the goddess.
Offering of Sweets and Fruits: Various offerings like sweets (mithai), fruits, and panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar) are placed before the goddess as a token of gratitude for her blessings.
Chanting of Mantras: The recitation of Vedic mantras, particularly the Lakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali (108 names of Goddess Lakshmi), is a key part of the ritual. The chants are believed to invoke the divine presence of the goddess.
Performing Aarti: Aarti is performed using a diya, as family members gather around and sing devotional songs to show their reverence. This is followed by the distribution of prasad among all members.
Placing of Coins and Accounts Books: In many households, gold, silver, and currency notes are placed in the puja area, as it is believed that worshipping Lakshmi will ensure financial stability. For business owners, account books are also placed before the goddess, seeking her blessings for successful ventures.
Why We Worship Goddess Lakshmi?
The act of worshipping Lakshmi is deeply rooted in the Sanatan dharma. It is not just about wealth in a materialistic sense, but also about the spiritual wealth of peace, joy, and good health. Deepawali is a time for families to come together, reflect on the past year, and seek prosperity for the future. By honouring Lakshmi Ma, devotees aim to bring harmony and balance into their lives, ensuring that they remain on the path of righteousness and success.
In recent years, there has also been a growing emphasis on celebrating an eco-friendly Deepawali by using Indian products for decoration, gifts, and celebrations. The Modi government has consistently urged citizens to avoid Chinese goods and embrace locally made products to support Indian artisans and businesses. This eco-conscious mindset aligns well with the spiritual undertones of Deepawali, promoting sustainability and harmony with nature.
As homes across India prepare for this significant ritual, the spirit of Deepawali remains unwavering celebrating the triumph of light, hope, and prosperity.
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