Patna: Diwali, the festival of lights, will be celebrated this year on October 20, marking one of the most significant days for Hindus to worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. The festival symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, while also invoking the blessings of prosperity and happiness.
According to Astrologer, the Amavasya Tithi of the Kartika month begins at 3:44pm on October 20 and ends at 5:54pm on October 21. This aligns Diwali celebrations with October 20, when devotees will perform the sacred Lakshmi Pujan ritual.
Auspicious Timings for Lakshmi Puja
The most favourable period for worship, known as the Shubh Muhurat, is from 7:08pm to 8:18pm.
- Pradosh Kaal: 5:46pm to 8:18pm
- Vrishabha Kaal: 7:08pm to 9:03pm
Astrologers believe that the overlap of Pradosh Kaal and Vrishabha Lagna is the most auspicious for invoking Goddess Lakshmi, as these timings are said to bring wealth and success.
Rituals and Rules for the Puja
Tradition holds that Goddess Lakshmi roams the earth on Diwali night, bestowing her blessings upon homes that are clean, decorated, and filled with devotion. Devotees are advised to:
- Avoid wearing black clothes and engaging in disputes.
- Thoroughly clean the house and the place of worship.
- Use only whole rice (Akshat), ghee, camphor, flowers, and pure water for the rituals.
- Avoid broken idols or utensils during the puja.
- Take a solemn vow (sankalp) before beginning the worship.
The Significance of Charity
Charity, or daan, is an integral part of Diwali observance. Donating food, clothes, sweets, money, lamps, or utensils to those in need is believed to bring financial stability and ensure the continued favour of Goddess Lakshmi.
Sacred Chants and Mantras
Reciting Lakshmi mantras during the puja is said to amplify its spiritual benefits. Among them, the Praise Mantra and the Seed Mantra are most revered, believed to attract abundance and destroy poverty.
