Mumbai: In Hinduism, the Mahalaxmi Vrat holds immense significance as a sacred fast dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. This 16-day-long observance is set to conclude on Tuesday, marking the end of an auspicious period of devotion. Followers believe that observing this fast removes all obstacles in life and ensures the continued blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Rituals during the Mahalaxmi Vrat begin each morning with a cleansing bath, followed by prayers, offerings, and special foods prepared for the goddess.
Mahalaxmi Vrat Date and Tithi
According to the Hindu calendar, the Mahalaxmi Vrat coincides with the Krishna Paksha Saptami (the seventh day of the waning moon) in the month of Ashwin. This year, the tithi begins on the evening of September 24 at 5:45 PM and extends until 4:44 PM on September 25. The fast is traditionally observed on September 24, but some devotees may observe it on September 25, depending on their personal schedules.
Rituals for Mahalaxmi Vrat
- Start the ritual by drawing a lotus using turmeric at the designated place of worship.
- Install an idol of Goddess Lakshmi seated on an elephant, symbolizing prosperity.
- The Shri Yantra, a symbol beloved by Goddess Lakshmi, should be placed in the puja.
- Offer gold and silver coins, along with fruits, flowers, and other offerings.
- Place a clean water-filled Kalash (pot) at the worship site, adding a betel leaf and placing a coconut on top.
- Malpua, a traditional sweet symbolizing prosperity, is prepared as part of the offerings.
- Worship the goddess in her Gajalakshmi form, along with an elephant idol and a lotus-seed garland.
- Offer kheer (sweet rice pudding) as prasad, light 16 lamps, and break the fast the following day.
- Conclude the puja by offering water to the Moon, a customary part of completing the fast.
Mahalaxmi Vrat Mantra Chanting
Devotees are encouraged to chant the mantra ‘Om Shri Mahalakshmyai Namah‘ during the fast to focus their minds and seek the blessings of the goddess.
Mahalaxmi Vrat Katha
Legend has it that a poor Brahmin woman once lived in a village, diligently worshipping Lord Vishnu. Pleased by her devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before her and offered her a boon. The Brahmin woman expressed her desire for Goddess Lakshmi to reside in her home and bless her with prosperity. Lord Vishnu advised her to invite a woman who regularly came to a nearby temple to make cow dung cakes. This woman, unknown to others, was Goddess Lakshmi in disguise.
Following Lord Vishnu’s advice, the Brahmin woman invited the woman to her home. The disguised Goddess Lakshmi instructed her to perform the Mahalaxmi Vrat for 16 days. After completing the fast, the Brahmin woman’s home was blessed with abundance and wealth. Since then, the tradition of observing the 16-day Mahalaxmi Vrat began, promising those who observe it with sincerity, prosperity, and happiness.
Mahalaxmi Vrat Path
The fast is traditionally concluded the morning after sunrise. Before breaking the fast, devotees are advised to donate to a Brahmin as an offering of goodwill and charity.
How to Observe Mahalaxmi Vrat
What to Do:
- Physical and mental purity are essential during the fast.
- Consume simple and pure foods such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products like yoghurt.
- Offer daily prayers to the goddess.
- Donate to those in need to receive divine blessings.
- Recite mantras dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi throughout the day.
- Uphold honesty and righteousness.
- Practice meditation and yoga to maintain focus and positivity.
What Not to Do:
- Avoid meat, fish, and eggs.
- Continue to fulfil your daily duties without idleness.
- Do not engage in unethical behaviour.
- Refrain from any form of violence, including verbal and emotional harm.
- Do not engage in dishonesty.
- Steer clear of anger, jealousy, and greed.
- Avoid harbouring negative emotions or thoughts.
What to Eat During Mahalaxmi Vrat
- Bananas, apples, grapes, oranges, and other fresh fruits.
- Almonds, cashews, raisins, and other nuts.
- Dishes made from buckwheat flour, like dhokla or pakoras.
- Boiled or steamed vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and beans.
- Milk, yoghurt, paneer (cottage cheese), and buttermilk.
- Sattu (roasted gram flour) sherbet for energy.
- Fruit and nut-based meals.
What Not to Eat During Mahalaxmi Vrat
- Avoid grains like rice, wheat, jowar, and bajra.
- Avoid fried items such as samosas and pakoras.
- Spicy food should be minimised.
- All types of lentils are to be avoided.
- Refrain from consuming meat, fish, and eggs.
- Onion and garlic are prohibited during the fast.
- Avoid pickles and papad during the fast.
Significance of Mahalaxmi Vrat
Mahalaxmi Vrat, observed over 16 days, is not a waterless fast but requires abstaining from grains. Fruits and sattvic meals are allowed. On the 16th day, the fast is concluded with a final ritual. For those unable to observe the full 16 days, fasting for the first or last three days is also believed to bring blessings of prosperity and fulfilment of desires.
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