Namastestu Mahāmāye Shrīpīṭhe Surapūjite,
Śaṅkhachakragadāhasthe Mahālakṣmi Namo’stu Te.

Meaning:
O Mahāmāya Mahālakshmi !
You are the divine power of Lord Vishnu, worshipped by the gods, holding the conch, discus, and mace in your hands.
I bow to you again and again with deep reverence.

The Festival and Its Significance

Lakshmi Puja is celebrated on the third day of the five-day Yama Panchak (Tihar) festival in Nepal.
On this evening, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi—the goddess of wealth, prosperity, fortune, and auspiciousness.
She is revered as Vishnu’s divine consort and the embodiment of beauty, purity, and spiritual energy in Sanatan Dharma (Hindu tradition).

According to sacred texts, this day falls on the night of Amavasya (New Moon), symbolizing darkness.
However, Goddess Lakshmi is believed to dispel that darkness and bring light, abundance, and auspiciousness.
Without her, a home is considered empty, dark, and unfortunate.

In Nepali tradition, Deusi–Bhailo songs and dances are also performed on this night, symbolizing communal joy, unity, and celebration.
People illuminate their homes with rows of oil lamps (diyo) to welcome peace, harmony, and prosperity.

The Rituals

• Purification of the Home:
  Early in the morning, homes and courtyards are thoroughly cleaned and sometimes smeared with cow dung or clay for purification.

• Welcoming the Goddess:
  Beautiful rangoli patterns and footprints symbolizing the goddess’s arrival are drawn at the entrance.

• Lighting of Lamps:
  In the evening, oil lamps are lit in every corner, at the courtyard, and on rooftops.

• Main Worship:
  Devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Ganesha, and also their books, pens, and safes, representing knowledge and wealth.
  Offerings include sweets, fruits, and sacred rice grains (akshata).

In the Scriptures

The Padma Purana and Vishnu Purana describe that Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan).
She is a four-armed goddess, holding a lotus, conch, and showing gestures of protection and blessings.
She is the presiding deity of wealth, fortune, prosperity, and purity.

Spiritual Meaning

Lakshmi Puja is not merely about seeking material wealth.
It teaches that true prosperity arises from a pure heart, sincere effort, truthfulness, and faith.
If one’s home, mind, and actions are pure, Goddess Lakshmi herself resides there.

Message and Blessing

This sacred festival brings light to life, removes darkness, and symbolizes faith, diligence, morality, and divine grace.
True Lakshmi is not only material wealth but also a pure mind, noble deeds, and a prosperous outlook.

“Sarveṣāṁ Gṛhe Lakṣmyāḥ Āgamanaṁ Bhavatu.”
May Goddess Lakshmi visit every home and bring blessings to all.

May this Deepawali bring happiness, prosperity, and auspicious fortune to everyone.