Laxmi Pooja is the most important ritual performed during Diwali (Deepavali). It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, good fortune, and harmony. On this day, families clean their homes, decorate the entrance with rangoli, and light diyas to welcome the divine blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
Why Laxmi Pooja Is Performed
Laxmi Pooja marks the awakening of positive energies and prosperity. Devotees believe that performing this pooja invites:
- Financial prosperity
- Success in business and career
- Harmony and happiness at home
- Removal of obstacles and negativity
- New beginnings with good fortune
Best Time for Laxmi Pooja (Muhurat)
The ideal time for Laxmi Pooja on Diwali is during the Pradosh Kaal, which starts after sunset. The specific muhurat varies each year based on the Hindu calendar, so it is updated annually. Make sure to check the exact time for your city.
Items Required (Pooja Samagri)
- Murti or photo of Goddess Lakshmi
- Murti or photo of Lord Ganesha
- Kalash with water and mango leaves
- Rice (Akshata)
- Kumkum and Haldi
- Flowers and garlands
- Incense sticks (Agarbatti)
- Diyas (oil or ghee lamps)
- Coins, currency notes, cheque book, business ledger (optional)
- Sweets, fruits, dry fruits, and prasad
- Rangoli colours
How to Perform Laxmi Pooja – Step-by-Step Ritual
- 1. Clean and prepare your home: Clean every corner and decorate the entrance with rangoli and lamps.
- 2. Place the idols: Arrange Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on a clean cloth or pooja chowki.
- 3. Light diyas: Light oil or ghee lamps to purify the surroundings.
- 4. Perform Ganesh Pooja: Pray to Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles before beginning Laxmi Pooja.
- 5. Offer haldi, kumkum, and flowers: Decorate the idols with flowers, sandal paste, and rice.
- 6. Recite Laxmi mantras: Chant Laxmi Stotra, Ashtottaram, Kanakadhara Stotram, or simple “Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyai Namaha.”
- 7. Offer prasad: Place sweets, fruits, dry fruits, and coins before the Goddess.
- 8. Perform aarti: Sing or play Lakshmi Aarti and wave the lamp clockwise.
- 9. Bless your finances: Keep money, gold, silver, cheque books, and business items near the idol for blessing.
- 10. Share prasad: Distribute prasad among family and guests.
Laxmi Pooja Mantras (Simple & Easy)
- “Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyai Namaha.”
- “Om Hreem Shreem Lakshmibhyo Namaha.”
- Lakshmi Aarti: “Om Jai Lakshmi Mata…”
Tips for a Successful Laxmi Pooja
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Always light at least one diya at the main entrance.
- Avoid fights, negativity, and loud arguments.
- Offer fresh flowers and homemade sweets if possible.
- Ensure everyone participates in the pooja.
Meaning of Cleanliness & Wealth During Laxmi Pooja
Goddess Lakshmi is believed to reside in places that are clean, pure, and filled with positivity. This is why homes are decorated with lights, rangoli, and fragrances to welcome her energy. Wealth in this context not only means money, but also peace, knowledge, happiness, and good relationships.
FAQs About Laxmi Pooja
1. What is Laxmi Pooja?
Laxmi Pooja is a ritual performed during Diwali to worship Goddess Lakshmi, seeking blessings for prosperity, wealth, and happiness.
2. When is Laxmi Pooja performed?
It is performed on Diwali night during the Pradosh Kaal, after sunset. The muhurat changes each year.
3. Can Laxmi Pooja be done at home?
Yes, anyone can perform Laxmi Pooja at home with simple rituals, devotion, and pure intention.
4. Why is Lord Ganesha worshipped along with Goddess Lakshmi?
Lord Ganesha removes obstacles and ensures peace, making the pooja complete and auspicious.
5. What should be avoided during Laxmi Pooja?
Avoid negativity, loud arguments, broken lamps, and leaving the home dark. Cleanliness is very important.
Conclusion
Laxmi Pooja is the heart of Diwali celebrations, bringing peace, prosperity, and blessings to families and businesses. Performing the pooja with devotion and positivity makes the festival even more meaningful and spiritually uplifting.
