How to Prepare for Diwali 2024 Lakshmi Puja: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prepare for Diwali 2024 Lakshmi Puja

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with immense devotion, and one of its most important aspects is the Lakshmi Puja, performed on the night of Amavasya. This year, Diwali will be observed with traditional rituals and prayers, inviting the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha and other deities.

To ensure that your Lakshmi Puja is performed with utmost precision and devotion, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for this auspicious occasion:

1. Fasting on Diwali

Fasting is an integral part of Diwali preparations. Devotees observe a full-day fast before performing the Lakshmi Puja. This fast can be Nirjal (without water), Phalahar (fruit-based), or milk-only, depending on one’s physical capacity and dedication. The fast is broken after completing the puja.

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2. Diwali Lakshmi-Ganesha-Saraswati Puja

The Diwali Puja involves worshipping not only Goddess Lakshmi but also Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge. Kuber, the god of wealth, is also revered. Here’s a breakdown of the essential rituals included in the puja:

• Atma-Shodhan (Self-Purification): Begin the puja by purifying yourself with water and prayers, preparing your mind and body for the divine rituals.
• Sankalp (Solemn Vow): Take a vow (sankalp) to perform the Diwali rituals with sincerity and devotion, praying for prosperity, peace, and happiness for your family.
• Shanti Path (Peace Chant): Recite the Shanti Path mantra to invoke peace and harmony in your life.
• Mangal Path (Auspicious Chant): This chant is recited to fulfill desires and bring success to the devotees.

3. Kalash Sthapana and Deity Worship

The Kalash Sthapana is a vital ritual where a sacred pot (kalash) filled with water is established as a representation of the gods. Once the kalash is placed, the following deities are worshipped:

• Ganapati Puja: Perform a brief five-step puja of Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings for an obstacle-free celebration.
• Navagraha Puja: Worship the nine celestial bodies (Navagraha) to seek their protection and blessings.
• Shodasha Matrika Puja: The 16 mother goddesses are honored with brief prayers.

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4. Maha Kali, Saraswati, and Kuber Puja

In addition to Lakshmi and Ganesha, other important deities are also worshipped:

• Maha Kali Puja: Performed on the writing tools (lekhani-dawat), invoking Goddess Kali’s protection over your business and work.
• Saraswati Puja: Goddess Saraswati is honored by offering prayers on the Bahi-Khata (account books) to seek her blessings for wisdom and knowledge.
• Kuber Puja: On Tijori-Baksa (safes), devotees pray to Lord Kuber for wealth and financial security.

5. Deep Malika Puja and Visarjan

An essential part of the Diwali ritual is the lighting of the Deep Malika—a series of oil lamps (diyas) that are placed around the home to dispel darkness and welcome prosperity. The light from the diyas is believed to guide Goddess Lakshmi into your home.

After the Lakshmi Puja is complete, perform the Visarjan (conclusion), offering prayers of thanks and seeking the blessings of the deities for the year ahead.

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6. Reading Shri-Sukta and Lakshmi-Sukta

To conclude the Diwali night on a spiritual note, it is suggested to recite sacred texts like the Shri-Sukta and Lakshmi-Sukta, hymns dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. If possible, keep a night-long vigil, chanting praises for the goddess, ensuring a divine connection and receiving her blessings for a prosperous year ahead.

By following these steps and traditions, you can perform a complete and meaningful Lakshmi Puja this Diwali, bringing wealth, health, and happiness to your home.

Also Read: From Dhanteras to Bhai Dooj - Check Complete Deepawali Calendar List