Celebrations of Goddess Lakshmi: Festivals and Traditions

Goddess Lakshmi, the divine embodiment of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune, is revered with numerous festivals throughout the year in Hindu culture. These festivals not only celebrate her presence but also hold significant cultural and spiritual importance. In this article, we explore some of the major festivals dedicated to Sri Mahalakshmi and the significance behind each celebration.

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most prominent and widely celebrated festivals associated with Lakshmi. As the largest festival of India, this event symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and is deeply rooted in beliefs of prosperity and well-being. On this day, devotees light lamps and candles in their homes to symbolize the victory of good over evil. They seek blessings from Sri Bhagavati Lakshmi to bring wealth and happiness into their lives.

Varamahalakshmi Vrat: A Special Festival for Married Women

Varamahalakshmi Vrat is a significant festival celebrated by married women mainly in the southern regions of India, particularly in Karnataka and some parts of Andhra Pradesh. This auspicious day is observed on the second Friday of the month of Shravana, which usually falls in July or August. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi and is marked by vows and offerings made to safeguard the well-being of their spouses and families. The wifehood of the god Lakshmi is personified in this vrat, and it aims to bring blessings of prosperity, health, and love.

Mahalakshmi Vrat: A Devotional Ritual Over 16 Days

Mahalakshmi Vrat is a devotion to the goddess that spans over 16 consecutive days. It begins on Shukla Ashtami in the month of Bhadrapada, which is four days after Ganesha Chaturthi. This vrat continues until Krishna Ashtami in the month of Ashwin, as per the Purnimanta calendar followed in North India. Devotees observe this vrat as a way to seek blessings from Goddess Mahalakshmi for prosperity and financial well-being.

Kirnotsav: The Sun’s Divinity Shown at Mahalakshmi Temple

The Kirnotsav is a unique phenomenon observed at the Kolhapur Mahalakshmi temple. The temple is designed in such a way that twice a year, the sun rays fall on the Murti of goddess Lakshmi. This occurs on January 31st and November 9th, where the sun rays fall on the feet of the deity. On February 1st and November 10th, the rays fall on the midsection of the Murti, and on February 2nd and November 11th, the entire body of the deity is illuminated. This phenomenon is a remarkable architectural marvel and a divine sighting that attracts pilgrims from various parts of the country. It is believed that during these days, the goddess herself bows to the sun, further emphasizing her divine and powerful portrayal of light and knowledge.

Sharad Purnima: A Retreat in Moonlight

Sharad Purnima, also known as Kojagari Lakshmi puja, is a harvest festival celebrated in various parts of India, especially in the eastern regions. On this day, people observe a fast, break their fast after moonrise by consuming traditional foods and sweets, such as kheer (rice pudding). This festival is a symbol of gratitude for the bountiful harvest and the gifts of nature. It is a time when the goddess is worshipped for an abundant harvest and a life full of happiness and fulfillment.

Alamelumanga Brahmotsava: The Manifestation of Goddess

The Alamelumanga Brahmotsava is a grand celebration celebrated with all pomp and glory to commemorate the auspicious manifestation of the goddess on a lotus flower. This event mirrors the celebration of Brahmotsava of Srinivasa at Tirumala, but it has its own unique characteristics and spiritual significance. The celebration is a testament to the reverence and devotion towards the goddess, celebrating her role as the bringer of blessings and prosperity.

Akshaya Tritiya: An Auspicious Day for New Ventures

Akshaya Tritiya is an auspicious day that falls on the third day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Vaishakha, typically in April or May. It is considered a blessed day for starting new ventures, making investments, and purchasing gold and other valuable items. The word 'Akshaya' means eternal, and for those who start a business or venture on this day, it is believed to bring everlasting success and prosperity. The celebration marks a fresh beginning and the promise of riches and joy.

Manabasa Gurubar: The Divine Thursday

Manabasa Gurubar is a special day mentioned in the Lakshmi Puran where the goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Jagannath, is worshipped on Thursdays in the Margashira month, which falls between November and December. This festival is celebrated with devotion and reverence, emphasizing the divine bond between the goddess and her devotees. The worship of Lakshmi on this day is a way to seek her blessings for wealth, love, and happiness.

Lakshmi Narayan Worship: A Separate Devotion

Devotees can worship Goddess Lakshmi alone or along with Lord Narayan. The worship of Yugal jodi lakshminarayan, a combination of the two, is also highly recommended. It is not limited to specific occasions like Ekadashi, Sharad Purnima, Diwali, or in Kartik month. This worship can be performed in Lakshmi Narayan temples or at home, offering a way to seek blessings for a peaceful and prosperous life.