Lakshmi Puja is an integral part of the Deepavali (Diwali) celebrations, one of the most significant festivals in Hinduism, celebrated with great enthusiasm across India and by Hindus worldwide. It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. Deepavali falls on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Ashwin month (October-November), marking the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

The essence of Lakshmi Puja is to invite Goddess Lakshmi into homes, seeking her blessings for material prosperity, spiritual growth, and health. It is also believed to honor the goddess for her role in creating wealth and sustaining the universe.

The celebration begins by thoroughly cleaning and decorating homes, as it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits only clean and well-lit homes. People adorn their homes with rangoli designs, mango leaves, and torans (door hangings), while lighting diyas (oil lamps) and earthen lamps to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Firecrackers are also lit to celebrate the joy of the occasion.

Lakshmi Puja is typically performed in the evening after sunset, with the family gathered around the altar where an idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi is placed, often alongside Lord Ganesha (the remover of obstacles). The puja involves the offering of fruits, sweets (especially ladoos and peda), flowers, incense sticks, sandalwood paste, and coins. Aarti is sung to the goddess, and prayers such as the Lakshmi Ashtakshara Mantra and Sri Lakshmi Stotra are recited.

The prasad from the puja is shared among family and friends, symbolizing the distribution of blessings and prosperity. On this auspicious day, many people also buy gold, silver, or new utensils, as it is considered an auspicious start to new ventures.

Lakshmi Puja during Deepavali brings joy, wealth, and well-being to all who celebrate.