Lakshmi Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrated on the fifth day of the waxing moon phase (Shukla Paksha) of Chaitra month, which usually falls in March or April. It is a day dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Lakshmi Panchami is also known as Shri Panchami or Shri Vrat.

Lakshmi Panchami has a special significance as it marks the beginning of one Kalpa, which is a cosmic cycle of creation and destruction according to Hindu cosmology. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean of milk during the churning of the sea by gods and demons. She then chose Lord Vishnu as her consort and blessed him with wealth and power.

The following are the steps for performing Lakshmi Panchami:

  • Wake up early in the morning and take a bath. Wear clean clothes and prepare an idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi with clay or turmeric paste.
  • Place the idol on a pedestal or altar and decorate it with flowers, vermilion, sandalwood paste and kumkum (a red powder used for marking). You can also place some coins, jewellery or other symbols of wealth near the idol.
  • Light a lamp with ghee or oil and place it near the idol. Also light some incense sticks and offer them to Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Invoke Goddess Lakshmi by chanting “Om Shri Mahalakshmyai Namah” 108 times. You can also use a rosary or mala for counting.
  • Offer poha (flattened rice) mixed with sugar to Goddess Lakshmi as it is her favourite food. You can also offer fruits like banana, mango or coconut.
  • Perform aarti or hymn singing to Goddess Lakshmi. You can use any devotional song dedicated to her or chant “Jai Laxmi Mata” 21 times.
  • Seek forgiveness from Goddess Lakshmi for any mistakes or sins committed knowingly or unknowingly. Ask for her grace and abundance in your life.
  • Distribute the prasad among your family members and friends as a mark of sharing your joy and gratitude.

Lakshmi Panchami is a simple yet powerful way to connect with Goddess Lakshmi’s boon-giving aspect and experience her divine energy. By doing this puja with faith and devotion, you can attain wealth, prosperity and happiness in all spheres of life.