Diwali Lakshmi Pooja is a central ritual performed during the festival of Diwali, specifically on the third day, known as Lakshmi Pujan or Deepavali. This day is dedicated to worshiping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance, as well as Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles. Performing this pooja is believed to bring financial prosperity, success, and happiness into one’s life.

Significance

Goddess Lakshmi:- She is the embodiment of wealth, prosperity, and well-being. Worshipping her on Diwali is believed to invite her blessings for financial stability and overall prosperity in the coming year.

Lord Ganesha:- Known for removing obstacles and bringing good fortune, Lord Ganesha is worshipped alongside Goddess Lakshmi to ensure the success of new ventures and to remove any hindrances.

Timing and Dates:- Diwali falls on the 15th day of the Hindu month of Ashwin (October-November), Lakshmi Pooja is performed on the third day of Diwali, also known as Lakshmi Pujan.

Preparation for Diwali Lakshmi Pooja

Cleaning and Decoration:

Clean the Home:- Thoroughly clean the home, especially the area where the pooja will be conducted, to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.

Decorate:- Use rangoli (colorful floor designs), diyas (oil lamps), candles, and lights to decorate the home. Make sure the entrance is well-lit and welcoming.

Gather Pooja Items:- Idols or Images: Of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.

Kalash:- A sacred water pitcher adorned with mango leaves and a coconut.

Diya (Oil Lamps): For lighting during the pooja.

Incense Sticks: For offering prayers.

Pooja Thali: A plate with various offerings such as rice, coins, and traditional sweets.

Steps for Performing Diwali Lakshmi Pooja

Setup the Pooja Space:- Choose a clean and auspicious spot in your home, ideally in the northeast direction.

- Place the Kalash and the idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on a clean cloth or mat.

Perform Ganesh Pooja:- Light the diya and incense sticks, Place the idol or image of Lord Ganesha on the pooja platform, Offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to Lord Ganesha.

- Recite Ganesh Vandana, such as "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah", to seek his blessings for removing obstacles and ensuring a successful pooja.

Perform Lakshmi Pooja:

Place the Idol:- Set up the idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi next to Lord Ganesha.

Offerings:- Offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to Goddess Lakshmi.

Recite Prayers and Mantras:

"Om Shreem Maha Lakshmyai Namah": A mantra for invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

"Om Lakshmi Namah": Another prayer to seek her favor.

Aarti:- Perform aarti (waving of the lighted lamp) around the deities while singing devotional songs or hymns.

Lakshmi Ashtakshari Mantra:- Recite the Lakshmi Ashtakshari Mantra: "Om Shreem Hreem Shreem Mahalakshmi Namah". This is considered powerful for attracting wealth and prosperity.

Offering of Prasad:- Offer prasad (food offerings) to the deities and distribute it among family members and guests.

Distribution of Gifts and Wealth:- It is customary to distribute gifts, sweets, and sometimes small amounts of money to family members, friends, and employees, symbolizing the sharing of prosperity and happiness.

Diwali Lakshmi Pooja is a joyful and sacred occasion that invites Goddess Lakshmi into your home, ensuring her blessings for prosperity and success. By performing this pooja with devotion and care, you honor the goddess and set a positive tone for the coming year.