How is Laxmi Puja done on Diwali?

As an expert in cultural practices and traditions, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of how Laxmi Puja is performed on Diwali. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across India and by the Indian diaspora worldwide. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Laxmi Puja, dedicated to the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi, is an integral part of Diwali celebrations and is performed to seek her blessings for a prosperous year ahead. Step 1: Preparation of the Puja Space The first step in performing Laxmi Puja is to prepare a clean and sanctified space for the puja. This space is typically adorned with flowers, rangoli (colorful patterns made from colored rice, sand, or flower petals), and small oil lamps or candles. The area is cleaned meticulously to welcome the goddess. Step 2: Kalash and Mango Leaves A kalash, a clay pot, is filled with water and decorated with flowers. It symbolizes abundance and is considered the abode of the goddess. Red mango leaves are considered auspicious and are placed in the kalash, arranged in a circular design on the neck of the pot. The number five is significant in Hinduism and is often associated with the five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether. Step 3: The Puja Thali A small Puja thali, a round metal or wooden plate, is prepared. On this thali, a small flat mountain of rice grains is made, symbolizing prosperity. Over this rice mountain, a lotus is drawn using haldi (turmeric), which is considered pure and auspicious. Step 4: Placement of the Idol In the center of the lotus, the idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi is placed. She is often depicted sitting or standing on a lotus pedestal, holding a lotus flower in one hand and a pot of gold in the other, symbolizing wealth and purity. Step 5: Lighting the Lamp Lamps are lit around the puja area, and an oil lamp, known as a diya, is placed near the kalash. Lighting the lamp signifies the dispelling of darkness and the triumph of light. Step 6: Aarti and Prayers The puja begins with the lighting of incense and the ringing of a bell to invite the goddess. The family gathers around the puja thali, and the head of the household performs the aarti, a ritual in which a plate with a lit lamp, flowers, and other offerings is waved around the deity while prayers are recited. The aarti is followed by the recitation of mantras and hymns dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. Step 7: Offerings Offerings are made to the goddess, which may include flowers, sweets, and betel leaves. These offerings are believed to please the goddess and invite her blessings. Step 8: Prasad Distribution After the puja, the family partakes in the prasad, which is a sweet or sanctified food that is considered to be blessed by the goddess. It is often distributed among family members and neighbors as a symbol of joy and shared prosperity. Step 9: Fireworks and Celebration The evening concludes with the bursting of fireworks and the lighting of more lamps around the house and neighborhood, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and the celebration of prosperity. Laxmi Puja is a beautiful and meaningful ritual that brings families together and instills a sense of hope and optimism for the year ahead. It is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the seeking of divine blessings for a prosperous and joyful life.

Put 5 mango leaves in the kalash and arrange them in a circular design on the neck of the kalash. Place Goddess Lakshmi. Keep a small Puja thali on the kalash and make a small flat mountain of rice grains. Draw a lotus with haldi over it and place the idol or Goddess Lakshmi in the center.