It is the season of auspiciousness and divinity—Lakshmi puja is here! Flowers bloom, people sing and pray to welcome goddess Lakshmi, and our hearts are overflowing with joy. We are elated as the goddess steps into our homes, walking gracefully with her anklets making a delightful sound. The air is consumed with spiritual vibes, and there is no place for negativity and gloom.
Worshipping Lakshmi is an irreplaceable part of the vibrant Festival of Lights, i.e., Diwali. Being the most-awaited festival for Indians, Diwali is celebrated with a lot of grandeur and excitement. The second day of Diwali is considered the most auspicious, and the worship of Lakshmi is performed on this day. Though this ritual is performed all across India, many people are unaware of the reason behind performing this puja. Also, Diwali and worship of Lakshmi are incomplete without the tradition of gift-giving. Let’s delve into the story of Diwali Lakshmi puja and the importance of Diwali gifting in this blog.
The Story and Vidhi of Lakshmi Puja
The Story
The legend behind the ritual is rooted in Hindu mythology. As per the story, gods and demons churned the cosmic ocean (Samudra manthanam) to extract the nectar of immortality. This led to the emergence of Lakshmi from the ocean. The gods gave a grand welcome to her, and she chose Lord Vishnu to be her consort. The appearance of Lakshmi is believed to have brought wealth and prosperity to the world.
On the night of Diwali, it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi descends on earth and showers her grace on those who light Diyas (lamps) and worship her.
Lakshmi Puja Vidhi
- Firstly, people clean and purify their homes to welcome the deity. Rangolis (multicolored patterns made with rice flour) grace the entrance of homes. Gangajal (holy water) is sprinkled all over the house, and the entrance is decorated with mango leaves.
- The puja is conducted on the evening of Diwali. Diyas are lit all over the house.
- A red cloth is placed in the puja area, and a handful of rice is spread on it. The idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are placed on this cloth. The idols and pictures of the goddess are decorated using fragrant flowers.
- A puja kalash (small pot) made of copper, silver, or bronze is filled three-quarters with water. A betel nut, marigold flower, clean coin, and rice grains are placed in the kalash. At the opening of the pot, five mango leaves are arranged in a circular fashion, and a coconut is placed in the opening. The puja kalash is placed in front of the idols.
- In some states like Maharashtra, people offer all the gold, money, and cereals present in the house during the puja. In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, the coconut in the kalash is decorated with silver/gold face of Lakshmi and golden ornaments like earrings, necklace, etc.
- Incense, fruits, and sweets are offered to the idols while chanting mantras and hymns.
- A vital part of the puja is listening to the story of Lakshmi (Lakshmi Purana), which is narrated by one of the members present during the puja. Usually, the story describes how Lakshmi chooses Vishnu to be her consort. Some people also read the story of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita during the puja.
- Aartis are sung for both the deities. Tilak (sandalwood or Kumkum paste) is applied to all the devotees present.
- Mouth-watering delicacies (prasad) are offered to the goddess, which typically include sweets like laddoos and fruits. This prasad is later distributed among the family and guests.
Why Lakshmi puja is Sacred for Diwali?
Lakshmi is considered the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. Worshipping our beloved goddess with a pure heart can give us financial success. She also bestows on us the wisdom to utilize our wealth wisely. Along with financial prosperity, this sacred ritual confers personal well-being and spiritual prosperity as well. It inspires us to be grateful for all the good things in life.
Spread Sparkle with Diwali Gifts
Warm hearts this Diwali!
The art of giving and receiving is one of the delights of the festival of lights. The positive energy generated by Diwali Lakshmi puja is further amplified by gift-giving. These gifts are cute bundles of love that create heartwarming memories. But, how did this gifting tradition start? As per an ancient story, a pile of gold at the door of King Hima’s family saved his son from a deadly snakebite. From then onwards, gifting gold has been considered good luck during Diwali. Also, in the olden days, when farming was the sole means of earning, people used to exchange farm products during the festival.
The exchange of traditional Diwali gifts like idols of Lakshmi and Ganesh, homemade delicacies, or jewellery has been prevalent for a long time. Over several years, this custom has evolved to include modern ideas like personalized gift hampers and corporate Diwali hampers. Modern gifting brands offer a range of options, from customized Diwali gift boxes to scented candles, classy diyas, home décor, chocolates, dry fruits, etc.
Diwali gifting strengthens bonds and is a great way to share the festive spirit. So, win more hearts this festive season by gifting customized gifts wrapped in love!
Diwali is Brighter with Lakshmi Puja and Gifting
Diwali and Lakshmi Puja are not just events—they symbolize the beginning of new, auspicious chapters filled with spiritual energy in our homes. In Hindu tradition, Diwali marks the end of the lunar year, making Lakshmi Puja a significant way to close the year on a positive note and welcome prosperity. While the rituals vary across different regions of India, the underlying spirit remains the same: the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This celebration brings families together, fostering an atmosphere of renewal, hope, and blessings for the year ahead.
Make your Diwali celebrations even grander by indulging in giving stunning gifts. The Diwali gifting options by Wrap arts awaken the soul of Diwali. Visit our online store to explore our exotic Diwali gifts.
- You can select whatever your heart craves for—Diwali Gift Boxes, Diwali Gift Trays, Diwali Hampers, Decorative Diyas, Scented Candles, Rangoli Displays, Home Décor—– and many more!
- Our Diwali gift ideas are unique, mesmerizing, and innovative. Whether gifting to a professional or personal relation, do it in style this season with our chocolate boxes, hampers with sweets and dry fruits, etc.
Spread Diwali vibes in your own classy style—Gift joy with Wrap Arts!
