Puja Items:
The following items are commonly used during Laxmi Puja:
Idol or Image of Goddess Lakshmi: The central focus of the puja.
- Diya or Oil Lamp: Lit to symbolize the dispelling of darkness and the victory of light.
- Incense Sticks and Camphor: Used to create a fragrant and pure environment.
- Fruits and Sweets: Offered as prasad (blessed food) to the goddess.
- Flowers: Used for adorning the deity and as offerings.
- Coins and Currency Notes: Placed in front of the deity as a symbol of wealth.
- Rice and Kumkum (vermilion): Used for rituals and tilak application.
Rituals and Puja Procedure:
- The puja begins with the worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
- Devotees then invoke Goddess Lakshmi with prayers and mantras.
- The idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi is bathed with water, milk, honey, and other auspicious substances in a ritual known as Abhishekam.
- Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other items to the goddess.
- The diya or oil lamp is circled in front of the deity, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life.
- Mantras dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, such as the Shri Sukta, are recited.
- Arti (ritual of waving lamps) is performed with the singing of hymns praising Goddess Lakshmi.
