As lamps flicker, homes glow, and prayers fill the air, Diwali, the festival of lights, welcomes not just joy and prosperity—but also the graceful presence of Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, abundance, and auspiciousness.
But who is Maa Lakshmi truly? And why is her worship at the heart of Diwali celebrations?
Who is Maa Lakshmi?
Maa Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune, beauty, and prosperity, both material and spiritual. She is the consort of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, and is said to sustain cosmic order through abundance, compassion, and nurturing energies.
Her name is derived from the Sanskrit word "Lakshya," meaning goal or aim. Thus, she represents not just financial wealth, but also spiritual goals, inner abundance, harmony, and well-being.
In iconography, she is depicted:
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Seated or standing on a fully bloomed lotus, symbolising purity amidst worldly life
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With four arms, representing dharma (righteousness), artha (wealth), kama (desires), and moksha (liberation)
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Pouring gold coins from her palm, blessing her devotees with prosperity
Why is Maa Lakshmi Worshipped During Diwali?
1. The Return of Lakshmi
According to legend, on the auspicious night of Diwali (Amavasya), Maa Lakshmi emerged during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan). Thus, this night is considered her birthday, and devotees honour her as the harbinger of new wealth, fortune, and blessings.
2. Lakshmi Puja in Diwali Rituals
On the third day of Diwali, known as Lakshmi Puja, devotees:
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Clean and decorate their homes to welcome the goddess
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Light diyas (oil lamps) to dispel darkness and invite her radiant grace
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Offer sweets, flowers, and prayers seeking her blessings for health, wealth, and happiness
3. Symbolism of Light and Prosperity
Diwali is a celebration of inner and outer prosperity. Maa Lakshmi symbolises both:
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External wealth, success in business, career, and home
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Inner wealth, including contentment, love, and spiritual fulfillment
Without Maa Lakshmi's blessings, even material riches feel empty. Her worship reminds us to seek balance between material success and spiritual well-being.
How Devotees Honour Maa Lakshmi
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Perform Lakshmi Puja on Diwali night with devotion and cleanliness
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Keep Lakshmi Yantras or silver coins depicting her form in wallets, homes, and shops
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Gift silver Maa Lakshmi pendants or bracelets as blessings of abundance and good fortune
🕉️ Explore Our Lakshmi and Divine Silver Jewellery Collection Here and bless your loved ones with a gift that carries the goddess’s grace.
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Because Lakshmi doesn’t just bless the gold in your hands—
She blesses the light in your heart.
And Diwali is her invitation to let that light shine.