Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated on Kartik Amavasya, the new moon night of the Kartik month. The main ritual of the day is Lakshmi Puja, when families worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha.
This article is based on religious beliefs and folk traditions. Democratic Bharat Live does not claim to verify them.
Why Diwali is celebrated
Diwali is linked with many stories. In North India, it marks the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile and the victory over Ravana. In other traditions, it is associated with the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi from the churning of the ocean. For Jains, it marks the nirvana of Lord Mahavira. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on this day.
Preparing for the puja
Homes are cleaned and decorated in the days before Diwali, as it is believed that Lakshmi visits clean and well lit homes. Rangoli is made at the entrance, and doors are decorated with torans of mango leaves and marigold flowers.
Common puja items
- Idols or pictures of Lakshmi and Ganesha
- A red or yellow cloth for the platform
- A kalash with water, mango leaves and a coconut
- Diyas, ghee or oil, cotton wicks
- Flowers, especially lotus and marigold
- Roli, rice, turmeric, sandalwood
- Sweets, kheel batashe, fruits and dry fruits
- Coins, and account books in business families
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General steps of the puja
- Set up the idols on a clean platform with Ganesha to the left of Lakshmi in many traditions.
- Place and worship the kalash.
- Worship Lord Ganesha first.
- Offer flowers, roli, rice and sweets to Goddess Lakshmi, and recite prayers or the Lakshmi aarti.
- Light diyas and place them around the house, at the entrance, windows and the Tulsi plant.
Rituals vary by region and family. Many families consult a priest or follow their own tradition.
Muhurat
The puja is usually performed during Pradosh kaal, the period after sunset, and many prefer the time when Sthir Lagna is in effect. The exact muhurat changes by city and year, so check your local panchang.
Regional celebrations
- In Bengal and Odisha, Kali Puja is performed on this night.
- In parts of South India, Naraka Chaturdashi, the day before, is the main celebration.
- In Gujarat, Diwali is followed by the New Year.
Celebrate responsibly
Choose earthen diyas and eco friendly decorations, follow local rules on firecrackers, and keep lamps away from flammable items.
Bottom line
Lakshmi Puja is the heart of Diwali, a time to welcome light, prosperity and togetherness into every home.
Source / स्रोत: Ministry of Culture, Incredible India, Ministry of Tourism
