Laxmi Puja is a Hindu ritual performed to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
The puja is typically performed during the festival of Diwali, which is widely celebrated in India and other parts of the world. Here are the general steps for performing Laxmi Puja:
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Preparation:
- Clean the house thoroughly.
- Decorate the puja area with colorful rangoli, flowers, and lights.
- Set up a raised platform or a clean area for the puja.
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Kalash Sthapana:
- Place a kalash (a sacred pot) filled with water, betel nut, rice, and a coin on the raised platform.
- Tie a moli (sacred thread) around the neck of the kalash.
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Ganesh Puja:
- Begin the puja by invoking Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
- Offer prayers and seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings before starting the Laxmi Puja.
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Laxmi Puja:
- Invoke Goddess Lakshmi and invite her to the puja.
- Offer flowers, sindoor (vermilion), haldi (turmeric), kumkum, and other traditional items to the goddess.
- Light incense and offer it to the deity.
- Offer sweets, fruits, and other delicacies as prasad (divine offering).
- Recite Laxmi mantras and hymns.
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Arti:
- Perform the arti (a ritual of waving lamps) in front of the goddess.
- Sing Laxmi aarti and seek her blessings for wealth and prosperity.
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Dhanteras Puja (Optional):
- If it’s Diwali, people may also perform Dhanteras Puja on the first day of Diwali, worshipping wealth and prosperity.
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Distribution of Prasad:
- After the puja, distribute prasad among family members and guests.
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Deepavali Celebrations:
- Following Laxmi Puja, people often engage in the lighting of diyas (lamps), bursting fireworks, and celebrating Diwali with joy and festivity.
Remember that these steps can vary based on regional and family traditions. It’s advisable to consult with elders or a priest for specific rituals and mantras based on your cultural background.