Mahalakshmi Vrat, a significant Hindu observance, is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. In 2024, Mahalakshmi Vrat will fall on Wednesday, September 11, and will end on Tuesday, September 24. This vrat spans across 14 days, starting from the Shukla Ashtami in the Bhadrapada month and ending on Krishna Ashtami in the Ashwin month, according to the Purnimanta calendar followed in North India.
Mahalakshmi Vrat 2024 Date and Timings
Mahalakshmi Vrat Begins: Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Mahalakshmi Vrat Ends: Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Moonrise Time: 1:20 PM on September 11, 2024
Ashtami Tithi Begins: 11:11 PM on September 10, 2024
Ashtami Tithi Ends: 11:46 PM on September 11, 2024
Rituals of Mahalakshmi Vrat
The observance of Mahalakshmi Vrat involves several rituals to honour the Goddess. Devotees begin their day with a bath before sunrise and gather all necessary puja materials. An altar is set up with an idol or image of Goddess Mahalakshmi. The puja includes offering a chunari (sacred cloth), betel nuts, coconuts, sandalwood, flowers, rice, and fruits to the deity. The sixteen adornments, which are essential in this ritual, are also offered during the puja.
A pot filled with clean water and topped with a coconut is placed near the goddess. A ghee lamp is lit, and the Mahalakshmi Aarti is performed. Devotees seek forgiveness for any mistakes made during the puja, a gesture that signifies humility and devotion.
Rules and Guidelines
Avoid tamasic (impure) foods: This includes refraining from consuming foods considered impure.
Maintain household purity: The home should be kept clean and pure during the entire vrat.
Daily Puja: Morning and evening pujas dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi should be performed.
Wear a sacred string: A string with sixteen knots is worn on the left hand throughout the vrat.
Avoid sour foods: Sour foods are to be avoided during the fasting period.
Durva Grass Ritual: After the puja, sprinkle water with sixteen strands of Durva grass on your body, which is believed to bring good fortune.
Significance of Mahalakshmi Vrat
Mahalakshmi Vrat is observed to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, prosperity, and the removal of life’s obstacles. It is believed that by observing this vrat and offering items beloved to Goddess Lakshmi, devotees can enhance their wealth and success, particularly in business ventures. The significance of this vrat is deeply rooted in the belief that Goddess Lakshmi bestows her blessings on those who observe it with dedication and faith.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
