Diwali is the most auspicious festival of Hindus. This festival is celebrated for the complete five day. Each day has its own importance. Lakshmi Puja is the one of the most important rite that is performed on the third day of the Diwali. People perform this ritual on the most important day of Diwali to invite Goddess Lakshmi popularly known as the Goddess of wealth to shower wealth and blessings in their homes. Various prayers are offered by people so that the Hindu New Year brings peace, prosperity and wealth with it.
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The Legends behind Lakshmi Puja Celebration
Goddess Lakshmi is the daughter of the most learned person, Bhrigu. She took shelter in the Milk ocean when all the Gods were sent for exile. Then, Lakshmi was reborn during the churning of the ocean. As soon as all Gods saw her, they all praised her for her beauty. Lord Shiva declared her as her wife but he had already taken the Moon so her hand was given to Lord Vishnu.
Lakshmi Puja Celebrations
To perform Lakshmi Puja, place the idol of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laksmi on a raised platform with a pitcher in between filled with three- fourth water with some flowers, grains and a coin inside it. Put five leaves of the mango plant arranged in a flower style and place it above a bowl of rice. Offer turmeric, kumkum, sandal and saffron paste to both the Gods. Put a flower garland around their necks and offer marigold flowers and leaves of the wood apple tree. Light intense sticks. Invoke Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laksmi by reciting various mantras mentioned in Puranas. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped to get success, good fortune and health. Finally, the Puja is concluded with ‘Aarti’ of both the Gods. It is believed that she only comes in those homes which are clean and members of whose family do the hard work.