I am performing this ritualistic worship of Lakshmi and Deity Kuber for various benefits like removal of my/our poverty and acquisition of more wealth, auspicious opulence, growth of dynasty, pleasure and prosperity by the love of Shri Mahalakshmi.
As promised to King Bali by performing Yamadeepadan on the three days of Diwali – Ashvin Krushna Paksha Chaturdashi, Ashwin Amavasya and Kartik Shukla Paksha Pratipada the fear of premature death is averted and Deity Lakshmi dwells in the home of those following Dharma .
At the time of Lakshmi-puja we should place the account books before Her idol and pray thus, “O Devi, we have used the wealth bestowed by You, for the service of the Absolute Truth and for the Divine mission.
Development of virtues gains importance only if in the process defects are overcome. We have just discussed remedies to acquire Lakshmi (wealth). This has to be complemented with removal of alakshmi (poverty). Hence, a new broom is purchased on this day. It is called ‘Lakshmi’.
A legend has it that on this day Shri Vishnu alongwith Devi Lakshmi liberated all Deities from Bali’s captivity.
Sabhyang snan should be taken at an auspicious time at dawn, when the stars are still visible. Water should be sprinkled from head to toe and back till the head, with a branch of a plant named Aghada (Prickly Chaff Plant). For this purpose, Aghada plant with roots is used.
As per Hindu calendar, Dhantrayodashi (Dhanatrayodashi) is celebrated on Ashwin Krushna Trayodashi (Thirteenth day of the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin).
The word Diwali has originated from Deepavali, which in turn is formed as deep (lamp) + avali (row). Deepavali is thus a row of lamps. During Diwali, lamps are lit everywhere.
Since Hindu festivals have a spiritual & scientific foundation, celebrating them leads to generation of Chaitanya !
