20th October 2025, Kathmandu
Lakshmi Puja is an immensely important festival for Hindus, celebrated on the day of Kartik Krishna Amavasya (the new moon night in the month of Kartik).
Lakshmi Puja Worshipping Goddess
This festival is not just about symbolizing wealth and prosperity; it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi as the embodiment of Maternal Power (Matrishakti), spiritual liberation (Mukti), and worldly enjoyment (Bhukti).
The Rigveda describes the Goddess, stating: “Om Shriścha te Lakshmiścha patnīḥ,” which establishes Lakshmi as the pervasive power in the entire creation and the presiding deity of global welfare.
Lakshmi: The Presiding Deity of Global Welfare
Goddess Lakshmi is considered much more than just the presiding deity of material wealth. She is revered as the consort of Lord Vishnu and the fundamental maternal power that inspires righteousness and moral conduct (Dharma). The mantra “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Matrirupena Samsthita” highlights this maternal form of the Goddess in all beings.
Householders perform the puja according to Vedic rituals in the evening.
| Sacred Offering (Samagri) | Significance in Worship |
| Sandalwood, Vermilion (Abir), Flowers, Akshata | Used for purification and formal invocation of the deity. |
| Barley, Sesame, Right-Handed Conch (Shankh) | Symbols of auspiciousness and the flow of positive energy. |
| Cowrie Shells (Kauda) & Lotus Seeds (Kamalgatta) | Specifically associated with wealth and Goddess Lakshmi. |
| Lotus Flower, Guggul (Incense), Light of the Diya | Items that are exceedingly dear to the Goddess and enhance the spiritual environment. |
The main feature of Lakshmi Puja is the lighting of lamps (Deep Prajvalan) in the evening throughout homes, courtyards, and shops. The belief is that Lakshmi will not reside in a house that is not clean and brightly lit.
This practice extends to industries, factories, and commercial establishments, where worship is performed on business ledgers (Bahikhata) and in the household shrine (Devalaya).
Mantras and the Night Vigil (Jagaram)
The puja includes the recitation of powerful mantras and hymns to secure the Goddess’s favor:
- Bīja Mantra: The seed mantra “Om Mahalakshmyai Cha Vidmahe, Vishnu Priyāyai Dhīmahi, Tanno Lakshmi Prachodayāt” is chanted repeatedly.
- Vigil: Devotees perform the night vigil (Jāgram) by reciting the Shri Sukta, Lakshmi Sukta, Gopal Sahasranama, and Vishnu Sahasranamavali. Remaining awake all night is believed to keep the Goddess’s blessings present throughout the year.
The Mythological Role of the Owl and Kubera
According to Puranic tradition, Lord Sadashiva himself declared the night of Kartik Krishna Amavasya to be dedicated to Lakshmi. It is believed that on this evening, Lakshmi descends to Earth, riding her vehicle, the Owl (Ullu).
- Worshipping the Owl (Ullu): The owl is worshipped as the vehicle of Lakshmi.
- Worshipping Kubera: Kubera, the God of Wealth and Treasurer of the Gods, is worshipped as the secretary of Lakshmi. There is a strong public belief that the Goddess will not be pleased if the worship of Lakshmi is not accompanied by the reverence of both the Owl and Kubera.
It is believed that the Goddess Lakshmi manifests in the homes of those who perform the worship with sincerity and purity of mind, word, and deed, ensuring the dwelling is filled with comfort, peace, and prosperity.
Thus, Lakshmi Puja is deeply established in the Sanatan tradition as a symbol of Maternal Power, piety, and holistic life enrichment, not merely the acquisition of wealth.
Are you ready to illuminate your home and invite prosperity this Lakshmi Puja?
For more: Lakshmi Puja Worshipping Goddess