HomeDevi-DevtaGoddess Lakshmi
Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity

Goddess Lakshmi

Goddess Lakshmi is the deity of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, and the consort of Lord Vishnu, worshipped most grandly on Diwali. Everything related to her, including chalisa, aarti, vrat kathas, festivals, and temples, is gathered here in one place.

Goddess Lakshmi

Goddess Lakshmi Mahatmya

According to legend, when the gods and demons churned the ocean of milk, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from it seated on a lotus, and chose Lord Vishnu as her husband from among all the gods present. Since then, she is regarded as his eternal consort, and worshipped as the presiding goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits only those homes that are clean and lit with lamps on the new-moon night of Diwali, which is why cleaning the house and decorating it with diyas holds special importance on this day. On the night of Sharad Purnima, observed as 'Kojagara Puja', it is believed that she herself roams about asking 'Ko Jagarti' (who is awake), blessing those who remain awake with wealth and prosperity.

Her vehicle, the owl, is regarded as a symbol of the wise use of wealth and alertness, standing in contrast to the qualities of 'Alakshmi', the personification of sloth and darkness. Special vows such as the Mahalakshmi Vrat and Varalakshmi Vrat are observed for a family's prosperity and wellbeing, each with its own distinct legend and tradition.

Readings Related to Goddess Lakshmi

About Goddess Lakshmi

This page is a single collection of everything related to Goddess Lakshmi, including chalisa, aarti, vrat kathas, festivals, and temples, gathered in one place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How did Goddess Lakshmi appear?

It is believed that she emerged from the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) seated on a lotus, and chose Lord Vishnu as her husband.

Why is Lakshmi worshipped on Diwali?

It is believed that Lakshmi visits only clean, lamp-lit homes, which is why houses are cleaned and decorated with diyas before her worship on Diwali.

What is Ashtalakshmi?

Ashtalakshmi are her eight forms, each presiding over a different kind of prosperity, such as wealth, grain, progeny, victory, and courage.

What is Kojagara Puja?

It is a Lakshmi worship performed on the night of Sharad Purnima, when the goddess is believed to roam asking 'who is awake' and bless those who remain so.

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Key Facts

ConsortLord Vishnu
OriginEmerged from the Samudra Manthan
VehicleThe owl
FormsAshtalakshmi, eight forms including wealth, grain, and progeny
Main FestivalDiwali
Chief MantraOm Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah