Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is not only a time for vibrant celebrations and joyous gatherings but also a period of spiritual reflection and divine reverence. Diwali Poojan, or Diwali Puja, is a significant ritual observed by Hindu households worldwide to seek the blessings of deities, particularly Goddess Lakshmi. In this post, we will guide you through the steps of Diwali Poojan, including the essential mantras, items, and fruits used in this auspicious ceremony.
Preparation for Diwali Poojan:
Cleanse and Decorate: Begin by thoroughly cleaning and decorating the house. Rangoli at the entrance and traditional decorations create a festive atmosphere.
Set Up the Puja Mandir : Designate a sacred space for the Diwali Poojan. It could be a dedicated room, a corner of a room, or a small altar. Place a clean cloth on the altar and arrange deities and sacred items.
Gather Puja Items: Collect essential items for the Diwali Poojan, including incense sticks, camphor, earthen lamps (diyas), a sacred idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, turmeric, vermillion, flowers, and fruits.
Steps of Diwali Poojan:
Ganesh Puja: Begin by invoking Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Chant the Ganesh mantra to seek his blessings.
Mantra: ॐ गं गणपतये नमः (Om Gam Ganapataye Namah)
Lakshmi Puja: Focus on Goddess Lakshmi, the harbinger of wealth and prosperity. Light the diya and incense sticks. Offer flowers, turmeric, vermillion, and rice to the goddess while chanting the Lakshmi mantra.
Mantra:
ॐ श्रीं महालक्ष्म्यै च विद्महे विष्णु पत्न्यै च धीमहि।
तन्नो लक्ष्मी प्रचोदयात्।
Saraswati Puja: If you wish, you can also perform Saraswati Puja, especially if education and knowledge are significant aspects of your prayers. Light a lamp and offer prayers to Goddess Saraswati.
Mantra: ॐ ऐं महासरस्वत्यै नमः
Aarti: Conclude the pooja by singing aarti dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. It is a melodious expression of gratitude and devotion.
Distribution of Prasad: Share the fruits and sweets offered during the pooja as prasad with family members and guests.
