Archives: Puja

Shiv Abhishek

Shiv Abhishek, also known as “Shiva Abhishekam,” is a Hindu ritual in which Lord Shiva is worshipped and honored by offering various substances as a way of seeking his blessings and divine grace. The word “Abhishek” in Sanskrit means “to bathe” or “to pour over,” and during this ritual, various sacred items are poured or offered over a Shiva Linga, which represents Lord Shiva. The ritual is often performed in temples and homes by devotees. Here are some of the common substances used in a Shiv Abhishek:

Water (Jal Abhishek): Water from the Holy Ganges River or any other sacred water source is used to bathe the Shiva Linga. Devotees often chant “Om Namah Shivaya” while pouring water.
Milk (Dugdha Abhishek): Milk is offered to symbolize purity and represents the nurturing aspect of Lord Shiva.
Yogurt (Dahi Abhishek): Yogurt is a symbol of coolness and is offered to please Lord Shiva’s fiery nature.
Honey (Madhu Abhishek): Honey is a symbol of sweetness and purity and is offered to seek the blessings of a harmonious life.
Ghee (Ghrita Abhishek): Ghee (clarified butter) represents light and the removal of darkness. It is offered for enlightenment.
Sugar (Sharkara Abhishek): Sugar is offered to seek the sweetness and joy in life and to remove bitterness.
Bilva Leaves (Bilva Patra Abhishek): Bilva leaves, also known as Bel leaves, are considered highly sacred in Shiva worship. They are offered as a sign of devotion.
Dhatura (Thorn Apple) Flowers: Dhatura flowers are considered sacred to Lord Shiva and are offered during the Abhishek.
Vibhuti (Sacred Ash): Vibhuti, a sacred ash, is applied on the Shiva Linga and the devotees’ foreheads. It represents purity and the ephemeral nature of life.
Rudraksha Beads: Devotees may offer Rudraksha beads, which are considered holy and associated with Lord Shiva, as part of the ritual.
Coconut Water: The water from a coconut is offered to represent purity and fertility.
Bael (Wood Apple) Juice: Bael fruit is highly revered, and its juice is used as an offering.
Sandalwood Paste: Sandalwood paste is applied on the Shiva Linga and is believed to purify and cool the deity.
Flowers: Various flowers, especially the lotus, are offered to please Lord Shiva.

Items required

Abhisheka liquids – Water mixed with Gangajal, unboiled milk, Sugarcane juice and/or Coconut water.
Punchamrit which is mix of unboiled milk , honey , sugar, ghee and curd.
Water mixed with Ganges water in a achamani pot with Kusha grass for sprinkling and a spoon
Dhoop, Incense sticks, Camphor, Ghee lamp
Sandal paste , Aromatic oil .
Rice grains
Offerings – Sweets, Clothes, Flowers, Fruits, Betel nut, Bael Patra, Paan , Coconut

Number of Jap – Benefit of Jap

1 Rudram – Freedom from Baal Graha (diseases common to children).
3 Rudram – Freedom from imminent difficulties with which one is faced.
5 Rudram – Freedom from the evil effects of certain planets occupying unfavorable positions.
7 Rudram – Freedom from great fear.
9 Rudram – The fruit of one Vaajapeya sacrifice and also attainment of peace of mind.
11 Rudram – Getting the favor of kings and great wealth.
33 Rudram – Attainment of wishes for objects and having no enemies.
77 Rudram – Enjoyment of great happiness.
99 Rudram – Attainment of son, grandson, wealth, grain, Dharma, Arth, Kaam and Moksh and freedom from death.

1 Mahaa-rudram – Attainment of the favor of kings and becoming the Lord of great wealth.
3 Mahaa-rudram – Fulfillment of impossible tasks.
5 Mahaa-rudram – Acquirement of vast lands.
7 Mahaa-rudram – Attainment of the seven worlds.
9 Mahaa-rudram – Freedom from births and deaths.
10 Ati-rudram – Becoming God.

Various Shiva Abhishekam Benefits

Materials for Abhishek : Pure water, milk, sugarcane juice, lemon juic, ghee, honey, waters of sacred rivers, sea water, Kush water, rice powder, cooked rice, Panchaamrit, Panchgavya.

Milk gives long life, freedom from diseases, and for begetting a son. It is believed that by doing Abhishek with milk, even a barren woman begets children.
Ghee gives Moksh state
Curd gives good children
Honey gives melodious voice
Rice powder frees from debts
Sugar cane juice gives good health
Panchaamrit gives wealth
Lemon juice removes fear of death
Sugar cane juice gives good health and removes enmity
Tender coconut water gives enjoyment
Cooked Rice (Annam) gives majestic life
Sandal gives Lakshmi’s grace
Water Abhishek gives rain.
Kush water Abhishek – becomes free from all diseases.
Sacred water gives Moksh
Ghee, honey and sugarcane juice give wealth,
Bilva Patra and flowers should be offered in Shiv Poojaa.

Kal Sarp Puja

Kal Sarp Puja is a Hindu religious ritual performed to seek the blessings and protection from the malefic effects of the Kal Sarp Dosha, which is an astrological condition in Vedic astrology. In Kal Sarp Dosha, all the planets in a person’s birth chart are positioned between Rahu (the north node) and Ketu (the south node), creating a serpent-like alignment. This Dosha is believed to bring challenges and obstacles in a person’s life, particularly related to career, relationships, and health.

The Kal Sarp Puja is often performed at temples or sacred places, and it involves the following key steps and elements:

Selection of an Auspicious Date: The puja is typically performed on specific dates that are considered auspicious. The selection of the date is based on the individual’s birth chart and the advice of a knowledgeable astrologer.
Worship of Lord Shiva: Kal Sarp Puja is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is believed to have the power to alleviate the malefic effects of the Dosha. Devotees seek the blessings of Lord Shiva during the puja.
Bathing in Holy Waters: Devotees may start the ritual by taking a bath in a sacred river or temple tank before proceeding with the puja.
Offerings to Lord Shiva: Devotees offer various items to Lord Shiva, including milk, water, honey, sandalwood paste, bilva leaves, and other sacred items. These offerings are made on a Shiva Linga.
Recitation of Mantras: The priest or the individual may recite specific mantras and hymns dedicated to Lord Shiva and Rahu-Ketu to seek their blessings and protection from the Dosha.
Havan (Fire Ritual): In some cases, a havan or fire ritual may be performed, where ghee, herbs, and other offerings are placed in the sacred fire while chanting mantras.
Donation: It is a common practice to donate to the needy or to priests as a way of seeking divine blessings and reducing the malefic effects of the Dosha.
Tying of Threads: After the puja, a special thread may be tied on the wrist of the person seeking relief from Kal Sarp Dosha. This thread is believed to protect the person from the malefic effects.
Feasting and Prasad Distribution: The puja is often concluded with a meal or feast, and prasad (blessed food) is distributed to those present.

Who should perform Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja?

Persons who have Kaal Sarp Dosh in their Kundli should perform this pooja.
If a person wants to know about the Kaal Sarp Dosh, he/she can analyze his horoscope through an Astroshastra expert.
The expert will suggest some remedies to the person depending upon the position of the planets.
Depending upon the remedies suggested by the expert one can perform Pooja, wear Rudraksha and Yantra as per the horoscope.
A person is affected by partial Kaal Sarp Yog if Mars and Saturn are on the opposite side of Rahu and Ketu.
If a very young child has Kaal Sarp Dosh then his parents can perform this pooja for him.

What are the benefits of doing Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja?

Performing Kaal Sarp Shanti Puja helps devotee in receiving blessings of the 9 species of the snakes.
When the Rahu Ketu Pooja takes place along with the Kaal Sarp Dosh pooja than it gives immense peace and opens doors of success and peace.
One also gets blessings of Goddess Lakshmi by worshipping the gold idol of snake.
The mind starts believing in the positive way and disappears any fear from the mind.
Also, it reduces the ill effects of the planets. It also leads to a successful professional life and the person gets respect in society.
It removes any obstacles and hindrances from one’s life and gives immense happiness.
Family relation grows strong and good that protects a person from any evil powers.

How to perform Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja?

Kaal Sarp Dosh Pooja takes place on a single day itself.
It takes 2 hours to complete this Vidhi or Pooja. It is important to offer food to the needy on this day.
Place Ganapati, Matrika Pujan, 1 Gold Nag, 1 Siver Murti of Rahu, 1 silver Murti of Kaal and worship it.
Later worship Navagraha.
Then worship Shivji on the Kalash and perform Havan with Kala Tila and Ghee.
One needs new clothes in this puja. Men need to wear Dhoti ad women needs to wear new Sarees.
One should never perform this pooja in oiled hair and pregnant woman should not take part in this pooja.
People who are participating in the pooja should take a bath before this pooja.
One can also perform Rudrabhishekam after the completion of this pooja that makes the pooja process as complete.

Vivah Puja

In Hinduism, a “Vivah Puja” is a sacred marriage ceremony and ritual performed during a Hindu wedding. The term “Vivah” refers to marriage, and “Puja” signifies a religious ritual or worship. Hindu weddings are elaborate and are steeped in religious and cultural traditions. The Vivah Puja is a significant part of the wedding, and it involves various rituals and ceremonies that are conducted to seek the blessings of the divine for the couple’s marital life. Here are some key aspects of the Vivah Puja:

Ganesh Puja: The wedding ceremony typically begins with a Ganesh Puja, where Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is worshipped to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the wedding.
Vara Puja and Kanya Puja: The bride and groom are individually worshipped and blessed. The groom’s feet are washed, and he is offered gifts and a special meal. The bride is also offered gifts and blessings. Both of them are considered incarnations of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi during the ceremony.
Sankalpa: The priest, bride, groom, and their families make a solemn commitment to conduct the wedding and live harmoniously as a married couple.
Exchange of Garlands (Jaimala): The bride and groom exchange floral garlands, symbolizing their acceptance of each other as partners.
Mangalsutra Dharan: The groom ties the sacred thread, known as “mangalsutra,” around the bride’s neck as a symbol of their marital union.
Saptapadi: The most significant ritual in the Vivah Puja involves the bride and groom taking seven rounds around a sacred fire, while making seven vows to each other. Each vow signifies different aspects of their married life, including love, respect, and companionship.
Kanyadaan: The bride’s parents offer their daughter to the groom in the presence of the sacred fire and the deities.
Sindoor Daan: The groom applies sindoor (vermilion) on the bride’s forehead as a symbol of her married status.
Ashirvad (Blessings): The priest and elders of the family bless the newlyweds for a happy and prosperous life together.
Reception and Celebrations: The Vivah Puja is followed by a grand wedding reception and celebrations, which may include a feast, music, dancing, and cultural performances.

About Vivah (Marriage)

Hindu marriage/vivah/wedding joins 2 people forever, so they will pursue Dharma (duty), artha (possessions), Kama (physical desires), and moksha (ultimate religious release) along. it’s a union of 2 people as husband and married person, and is recognized by law. In Hinduism, marriage/vivah/wedding is followed by traditional rituals for consummation. In fact, marriage/vivah/wedding isn’t thought-about complete or valid till consummation. It additionally joins 2 families along. Favorable colors are usually red and gold for this occasion.

Eight Types of Marriage

1. Brahma Marriage 2. Daiva Marriage 3. Arsha Marriage 4. Prajapatya Marriage
5. Gandharva Marriage 6. Asura Marriage 7. Rakshasa Marriage 8. Paishacha Marriage

Importance and Significance of Marraige/Vivah Puja

Marriages became a multi-day celebration. There are numerous pre-wedding functions. Pujas performed in each function have some significance. Vivah could be a very sacred union. several Gods and Goddesses are invited through numerous rituals to come and bless the couple. Marriages are set within the cosmos however the union sanskaar is completed through a Vivah Puja. The Agni is the sakshi or the witness to the present Holy Union. the guarantees created throughout a Vivah Puja are hole life commitments that the bride and also the groom build to each other. A Vivah Puja is formed of assorted rituals and every ritual is important.

Benefits of Vivah Puja (Wedding Puja)

Blessings of all the Devs and Devis.
Blessings of our fore fathers and ancestors.
Participation of assorted relations within the Vidhi.
Formation of 2 souls as per Vedic beliefs.
Unity between the bride and also the groom.
Physical, Mental, Social, Legal and religious connections between the bride and also the groom.
Awareness of responsibilities towards one another and each other’s families.
Awareness of their duties within the social established.
An opportunity to procreate with everyone’s blessings.
An opportunity to possess janam janam Ka saath(life long partnership) along with your partner.

Durga Path

॥ अथ सप्तश्लोकी दुर्गा ॥

॥ शिव उवाच ॥

देवि त्वं भक्तसुलभेसर्वकार्यविधायिनी।

कलौ हि कार्यसिद्ध्यर्थमुपायंब्रूहि यत्नतः॥

॥ देव्युवाच ॥

श्रृणु देव प्रवक्ष्यामिकलौ सर्वेष्टसाधनम्।

मया तवैव स्नेहेनाप्यम्बास्तुतिः प्रकाश्यते॥

॥ विनियोगः ॥

ॐ अस्य श्रीदुर्गासप्तश्लोकीस्तोत्रमन्त्रस्यनारायण ऋषिः,

अनुष्टुप् छन्दः,श्रीमहाकालीमहालक्ष्मीमहासरस्वत्यो देवताः,

श्रीदुर्गाप्रीत्यर्थं सप्तश्लोकीदुर्गापाठे विनियोगः।

ॐ ज्ञानिनामपि चेतांसिदेवी भगवती हि सा।

बलादाकृष्य मोहायमहामाया प्रयच्छति॥1॥

दुर्गे स्मृताहरसि भीतिमशेषजन्तोः

स्वस्थैः स्मृतामतिमतीव शुभां ददासि।

दारिद्र्यदुःखभयहारिणिका त्वदन्या

सर्वोपकारकरणायसदार्द्रचित्ता॥2॥

सर्वमङ्गलमङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके।

शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥3॥

शरणागतदीनार्तपरित्राणपरायणे।

सर्वस्यार्तिहरे देवि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते॥4॥

सर्वस्वरूपे सर्वेशेसर्वशक्तिसमन्विते।

भयेभ्यस्त्राहि नो देवि दुर्गेदेवि नमोऽस्तु ते॥5॥

रोगानशेषानपहंसि तुष्टा रूष्टातु कामान् सकलानभीष्टान्।

त्वामाश्रितानां न विपन्नराणांत्वामाश्रिता ह्याश्रयतां प्रयान्ति॥6॥

सर्वाबाधाप्रशमनंत्रैलोक्यस्याखिलेश्वरि।

एवमेव त्वयाकार्यमस्मद्वैरिविनाशनम्॥7॥

॥ इति श्रीसप्तश्लोकी दुर्गा सम्पूर्णा ॥

दुर्गा पूजा पर संक्षिप्त विवरण

दुर्गा पूजा एक वार्षिक हिन्दु त्यौहार है जो कि देवी दुर्गा को समर्पित है। दुर्गा पूजा उत्सव देवी पक्ष के दौरान मनाया जाता है। हिन्दु कैलेण्डर के अनुसार देवी पक्ष आश्विन चन्द्र मास की पन्द्रह दिनों की अवधि है। देवी पक्ष सर्वपितृ अमावस्या के अगले दिन प्रारम्भ होता है और कोजागरी लोकखी पूजा पर समाप्त होता है। देवी पक्ष का शाब्दिक अर्थ है “देवी का पखवाड़ा”।

दुर्गा पूजा को भारतीय राज्यों पश्चिम बंगाल, ओडिशा, असम, मणिपुर और त्रिपुरा में व्यापक रूप से मनाया जाता है। पश्चिम बंगाल, असम और त्रिपुरा में, जहाँ बंगाली हिन्दुओ और असमिया हिन्दुओं का बहुमत है, दुर्गा पूजा वर्ष का सबसे बड़ा त्यौहार है। इन राज्यों में, दुर्गा पूजा न केवल सबसे बड़ा हिन्दु त्यौहार है, बल्कि बंगाली हिन्दु समाज के लिये सबसे महत्वपूर्ण सामाजिक-सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम भी है।

पश्चिम बंगाल में, दुर्गा पूजा देवी पक्ष के दौरान सभी छह दिनों को सन्दर्भित करती है जिसे महालय, षष्ठी, महा सप्तमी, महा अष्टमी, महा नवमी और विजयादशमी के रूप में मनाया जाता है। दुर्गा पूजा को दुर्गोत्सव और शारदोत्सव के नाम से भी जाना जाता है।

अन्य भारतीय राज्यों में, देवी पक्ष के दौरान दुर्गा पूजा को नवरात्रि के रूप में मनाया जाता है। हालाँकि नवरात्रि भी देवी दुर्गा को समर्पित है और दुर्गा पूजा के समय ही आती है, लेकिन नवरात्रि के दौरान सम्पन्न किये जाने वाले अनुष्ठान और रीति-रिवाज दुर्गा पूजा की तुलना में काफी भिन्न होते हैं। जिन भारतीय राज्यों में देवी पक्ष को नवरात्रि के रूप में मनाया जाता है वहाँ स्थानीय भाषा में दुर्गा पूजा शब्द का उपयोग नहीं किया जाता है और यदि बातचीत में दुर्गा पूजा शब्द का उपयोग किया जाता है तो यह आमतौर पर पश्चिम बंगाल में देवी दुर्गा पूजा को सन्दर्भित करता है।

दुर्गा पूजा का प्रारम्भ एवम् महत्व

जैसा कि विभिन्न हिन्दु धार्मिक ग्रन्थों में उल्लेख मिलता है, भगवान राम के युग से पहले, चैत्र नवरात्रि देवी दुर्गा की पूजा करने का सबसे महत्वपूर्ण समय हुआ करता था। हालाँकि, भगवान राम के युग के दौरान चैत्र नवरात्रि का महत्व कम हो गया और यह महत्व दुर्गा पूजा में स्थानान्तरित हो गया।

पौराणिक कथाओं के अनुसार, रावण के विरुद्ध युद्ध प्रारम्भ करने से पहले भगवान राम ने देवी दुर्गा की पूजा की थी। ऐसा माना जाता है कि भगवान राम ने चण्डी होम किया था और युद्ध में जाने से पहले देवी दुर्गा का आशीर्वाद माँगा था। चूँकि यह देवी दुर्गा का असामयिक आह्वान था, इसीलिये वर्ष में इस समय के दौरान देवी दुर्गा की पूजा को अकाल बोधन अर्थात असामयिक आह्वान के रूप में भी जाना जाता है। क्योंकि भगवान राम को शक्तिशाली राक्षस रावण पर विजय प्राप्त हुयी थी, इसीलिये वर्ष का यह समय देवी दुर्गा का आशीर्वाद लेने और चण्डी होम करने के लिये सर्वाधिक उपयुक्त माना जाता है।

दुर्गा पूजा के देवी-देवता

दुर्गा पूजा के अनुष्ठान की अधिष्ठात्री देवी माँ दुर्गा हैं। दुर्गा पूजा में देवी दुर्गा के पति के रूप में भगवान शिव की पूजा भी शामिल है। देवी दुर्गा भगवान शिव की अर्द्धांगिनी देवी पार्वती का ही एक रूप हैं।

ऐसा माना जाता है कि जब देवी दुर्गा आती हैं, तो उनके साथ उनके पुत्र, भगवान गणेश और भगवान कार्तिकेय भी आते हैं, साथ ही पुत्रियाँ देवी लक्ष्मी और देवी सरस्वती भी आती हैं। पश्चिम बंगाल में, इन चारों देवी-देवताओं (गणेश, कार्तिकेय, लक्ष्मी, सरस्वती) को देवी दुर्गा की सन्तान माना जाता है। इसीलिये, दुर्गा पूजा के दौरान देवी लक्ष्मी, देवी सरस्वती, भगवान गणेश और भगवान कार्तिकेय की भी पूजा की जाती है।

दुर्गा पूजा दिनाँक और समय

पश्चिम बंगाल में दुर्गा पूजा सबसे महत्वपूर्ण त्यौहार है। क्योंकि, दुर्गा पूजा का दिन और समय चन्द्र कैलेण्डर के आधार पर निर्धारित किया जाता है, इसीलिये बंगाली कैलेण्डर में दुर्गा पूजा की तिथि निश्चित नहीं है।

हालाँकि, महालय के अगले दिन देवी पक्ष की शुरुआत होती है, लेकिन अनुष्ठानिक दुर्गा पूजा देवी पक्ष के छठे दिन से प्रारम्भ होती है। हालाँकि, पश्चिम बंगाल में चण्डी पाठ का वर्णन महालय के दिन से प्रारम्भ होता है अर्थात देवी पक्ष प्रारम्भ होने से एक दिन पहले।

दुर्गा पूजा प्रारम्भ – आश्विन (7वाँ चन्द्र माह) शुक्ल पक्ष का छठवाँ दिन
दुर्गा पूजा समाप्त – आश्विन शुक्ल पक्ष का दसवाँ दिन

दुर्गा पूजा के त्यौहारों की सूची

दुर्गा पूजा कैलेण्डर, दुर्गोत्सव के सभी महत्वपूर्ण दिनों को सूचीबद्ध करता है। पश्चिम बंगाल में, दुर्गा पूजा अकाल बोधन से प्रारम्भ होती है, जिस दिन देवी दुर्गा को आमन्त्रित किया जाता है और विजयादशमी के साथ समाप्त होती है जब देवी दुर्गा को मन्त्रोच्चारण और अनुष्ठान के साथ विदा किया जाता है।

दिन 1 – अकाल बोधन, कल्पारम्भ (देवी पक्ष का छठा छठवाँ)
दिन 2 – नवपत्रिका पूजा, कोलाबोउ पूजा (देवी पक्ष का सातवाँ दिन)
दिन 3 – दुर्गा अष्टमी, सन्धि पूजा (देवी पक्ष का आठवाँ दिन)
दिन 4 – महा नवमी, नवमी होम (देवी पक्ष का नौवाँ दिन)
दिन 5 – विजयादशमी, दुर्गा विसर्जन, सिन्दूर उत्सव (देवी पक्ष का दसवाँ दिन)

दुर्गा पूजा के मुख्य अनुष्ठान

विशेष रूप से भारतीय राज्य पश्चिम बंगाल में दुर्गा पूजा के दौरान कई अनुष्ठानों को सम्पन्न किया जाता है। इसमें शामिल मुख्य अनुष्ठान निम्नलिखित हैं –

चण्डी पाठ सुनाना या सुनना
देवी दुर्गा की अनुपम प्रतिमाओं को दर्शाने के लिये सुसज्जित पण्डाल लगाना
देवी दुर्गा को पहले चार दिन प्रातःकाल पुष्पाञ्जलि अर्पित करना
सप्तमी से नवमी तक षोडशोपचार दुर्गा पूजा करना
देवी दुर्गा के सामने धुनुची नृत्य करना
महानवमी पर चण्डी यज्ञ करना या उसमें सम्मिलित होना
सन्धि पूजा के दौरान मिट्टी के 108 दीपक प्रज्वलित करना
विजयादशमी के दिन दुर्गा विसर्जन करना
सिन्दूर उत्सव के दौरान सिन्दूर के साथ खेलना
विजय अभिवादन का आदान-प्रदान करना

दुर्गा पूजा के समान अन्य त्यौहार

गुजरात में शारदीय नवरात्रि
नेपाल में दशैं
कर्नाटक में मैसूर दसरा

Laxmi Puja

Lakshmi Puja 2023 Date, Time, Aarti, Samgari, Puja Vidhi, Mantra

Lakshmi Puja is the day to worship Goddess Lakshmi. It is considered to be the most auspicious day during Diwali. Goddess Lakshmi represents wealth, prosperity, and happiness. Hence, devotees pray to the goddess and seek for wealth and prosperity. Check about Lakshmi Puja date and time 2023, Origin, Rituals, Aarti, Samgari, Puja Vidhi, Mantra, significance, celebrations, traditions & places to observe.

When is Lakshmi Puja in 2023?

Lakshmi Puja 2023 will be celebrated on the day of the festival of lights – Diwali. It falls after 20 days of Dussehra and Durga Puja. Here are the details for Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in 2023:

Lakshmi Puja 2023 Date: 12 November
Lakshmi Puja 2023 Time: 05:40 PM to 07:36 P

Lakshmi Puja History and Origin

According to the beliefs, Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the Samundra Manthan (churning of the ocean) during a war between Gods and Demons. After the emersion, Goddess Lakshmi chose Lord Vishnu as her master and thus came on the side of the Gods. Now that the gods had their powers back, it was easier to defeat the demons.

Since then, Goddess Lakshmi has visited all the homes of her devotees if she is pleased with them on the day of Diwali. Diwali is also a festival of lights and happiness which is similar to the Lakshmi Puja festival. Goddess Lakshmi blesses her devotees with a prosperous and healthier life.

Lakshmi Puja Significance

Lakshmi puja is performed to welcome the new year as per the Hindu calendar. During the Lakshmi puja rituals, the main door is kept open as a symbol of inviting the Goddess into the homes. Rangolis made of flowers and colours are used for decoration of the houses. New ventures and new accounting years in some businesses are also initiated on this day.

Vidhi, Traditions, and Rituals of Lakshmi Puja 2023

Lakshmi Puja is the most important ritual performed during Diwali. Some of the popular rituals during Lakshmi Puja 2023 are:

The first ritual is to clean the house and surroundings.
Decorating the house with Rangolis, flowers, lights, and lamps.
Wearing new clothes during the Lakshmi Puja and some people also observe fasting on this day.
Decorate the idols of Goddess Lakshmi using flowers and red clothing.
Worship the goddess by chanting Lakshmi Puja Mantra and lighting a lamp.
People do prayers and different Lakshmi Puja Vidhi at home for a successful career, business, health, and other things. At the end of the prayer, people sing Lakshmi Puja Aarti.
It is advised to avoid the worship of Goddess Tulsi on this day.

Lakshmi Puja Mantra

Lakshmi Puja Mantra has many benefits as it attracts prosperity and good health. Here are the main Lakshmi Puja Mantra:

1. Lakshmi Beej Mantra

|| ॐ श्रीं श्रीये नम ||

|| Om Shring Shriye Namah ||

Meaning: I meditate upon the great Goddess, the wife of Lord Vishnu to bless me with higher intellect and bestow upon me riches and opulence in abundance.

2. Mahalakshmi Mantra

|| ॐ सर्वाबाधा विनिर्मुक्तो, धन धान्यः सुतान्वितः।

मनुष्यो मत्प्रसादेन भविष्यति न संशयः ॐ ||

|| Om Sarvabaadhaa Vinirmukto, Dhan Dhaanyah Sutaanvitah |

Manushyo Matprasaaden Bhavishyati Na Sanshayah Om ||

Meaning: I pray to Goddess Laxmi to destroy all the evil forces around us and bless us with a prosperous and bright future.

3. Gajalakshmi Mantra

|| ॐ श्रीं ह्रीं क्लीं गजलक्ष्म्यै नमः ||

|| Om Shreem Hreem Kleem Gajalakshmaye Namah ||

Meaning: I worship the one who is prayed by the Elephants. Elephants are seen as a symbol of immense wealth and prosperity. The Gajalakshmi sits in a position in which Elephants who bring wealth worship her and she bestows the same wealth unto her worshippers.

Lakshmi Puja Samagri

Lakshmi Puja is a Hindu religious ritual performed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, who is the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune. The items or samagri required for Lakshmi Puja may vary based on regional customs and personal preferences, but here is a general list of common items used during the puja:

Idol or Image of Goddess Lakshmi: This is the central figure for the puja. You can have a silver, gold, or clay idol or a picture of Goddess Lakshmi.
Red Cloth or Sari: A red cloth or sari is commonly used to drape the idol or image of Goddess Lakshmi.
Deepak (Oil Lamp): You will need a lamp or diya to light during the puja. It’s usually filled with ghee or oil.
Incense Sticks (Agarbatti): Incense sticks are lit to create a pleasant fragrance during the puja.
Sandalwood Paste and Incense: Sandalwood paste and incense are used to apply tilak (a sacred mark) on the idol and for offering a pleasing fragrance.
Fresh Flowers: Flowers are offered to the goddess as a sign of devotion and purity.
Rice: Rice is often used as an offering.
Turmeric Powder: Turmeric is considered sacred in Hindu rituals and is used during the puja.
Kumkum (Vermilion Powder): Kumkum is used for applying a tilak on the goddess.
Betel Leaves and Nuts (Paan): These are often offered to the deity.
Coins: Offer coins to symbolize wealth and prosperity.
Fruits: Various fruits, especially seasonal ones, are offered as prasad (sacred food).
Sweets: Sweets like laddoos, jalebi, or any other favorite sweets of Goddess Lakshmi are offered.
Milk and Milk Products: Milk, ghee, yogurt, and other milk products are offered.
Saffron: Saffron strands are used to enhance the beauty and fragrance of the puja.
Coconut: A whole coconut is often offered during the puja.
Panchamrit: A mixture of milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar, which is used as an offering.
Aarti Thali: A plate or thali containing the items for aarti (a Hindu ritual of waving a lit lamp before the deity) is required.
Bell: A bell is rung to announce the beginning of the puja and invoke the presence of the deity.
Ganga Jal (Holy Water): Some people use holy water from the Ganges River for the puja.
Lakshmi Chalisa or Lakshmi Stotra: Devotional songs or hymns dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi are recited during the puja.

Lakshmi Puja 2023 Wishes

Lakshmi Puja is a time when people seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity, wealth, and well-being. When sending wishes for Lakshmi Puja in 2023, you can express your heartfelt sentiments and blessings to your friends, family, or loved ones. Here are some wishes you can consider:

“May Goddess Lakshmi bless your home with wealth, health, and happiness on this auspicious day of Lakshmi Puja. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“Wishing you a year filled with prosperity, success, and good fortune. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“As we celebrate Lakshmi Puja, may your life be illuminated with the divine blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Happy Lakshmi Puja to you and your family!”
“On this special occasion of Lakshmi Puja, may your financial worries fade away, and your life be filled with abundance. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“May the divine presence of Goddess Lakshmi shower her blessings upon you and your loved ones. Happy Lakshmi Puja!”
“May the lamp of knowledge and prosperity light up your life and bring you success in all your endeavors. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“Wishing you a Lakshmi Puja filled with love, joy, and endless blessings. May your life be as bright and beautiful as the diwali lamps. Happy Lakshmi Puja!”
“May this Lakshmi Puja mark the beginning of a new chapter in your life, where every day is filled with prosperity and good fortune. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“On the occasion of Lakshmi Puja, may your home be blessed with endless wealth, and your heart with boundless happiness. Happy Lakshmi Puja!”
“As we celebrate Lakshmi Puja, I pray that your life is filled with the treasures of love, health, and prosperity. Wishing you a Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”
“May this Lakshmi Puja bring peace, prosperity, and success to your life. Wishing you a year ahead filled with happiness and abundance.”
“On this auspicious day of Lakshmi Puja, may your heart and home be illuminated with the divine light of blessings and good fortune. Happy Lakshmi Puja 2023!”

Rudra Abhishek

Rudrabhishek is a ritual in which a Panchamrut is offered to Lord Shiva along with mantras to grant all of the wishes of the individual who performs it. This Rudrabhishek bestows wealth, the satisfaction of all desires, the removal of negativity, the cutting off of bad karma, and overall Happiness. The devotees enchant mantras/Shlokas for communicating with God. By enchanting these mantras, the surroundings/environment is filled with positive vibes and creating positive energy in the minds of devotees. In the Rudrabhishek Puja, 108 names of Lord Shiva are chanted. The Shiva Linga is decorated with Rudraksha.

Why is Lord Shiva called Rudra?

The term ‘Rudra’ is used amply in the Vedas. Rudra means tempest or a violent storm. Rudra focuses on the destructive nature of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is both gentle and aggressive. He is both forgiving and merciless. He is everything. He is the beginning and he himself is the end. This is how his devotees perceive him.

Some philosophical and spiritual experts believe that Lord Shiva is called Rudra because of the Rudra Tandav dance. It is believed that a robust, fearless and enrage Shiva performs the Rudra Tandav dance in cremation grounds. He is unstoppable and furious.

Another story says that the name Rudra is associated with 11 Rudras which were created by Lord Shiva. Once, Lord Brahma requested lord Shiva to create some interesting beings. He complained of monotony which he got from creating ordinary beings. He wanted to have extraordinary beings.

Lord Shiva ha has always been benevolent. He kept the request of Lord Brahma and created 11 immortal beings namely:

Kapaali, Pingala, Bhima, Virupaksha, Vilohitaa, Ajesha, Shavasana, Shasta, Shambu, Chanda and, Dhruva.

As Lord Shiva created the 11 Rudras, he was addressed by the name Rudra.

Things Required for the Rudra Abhishek Pooja:

Shiva Linga
Milk
Honey
Water
Charnamrit
Ghee
Sugar
Flowers
Bel patra
Gangajal

Who Should Perform Rudrabhishek Puja?

This Puja should be done by someone who is afflicted with any diseases or ailments.
This Puja may also be performed if one wishes for harmony and Peace in one’s family relationships
This Pooja is also beneficial if an individual is having trouble achieving success.
The Pooja and the rituals performed have importance in their ways to seek blessings and bring good fortune in Lord Shiva devotees’ lives

Rudra mantra

Om Namoh bhagvate rudray . (ॐ नमः भगवतेः रुद्राय )

Panchakshari mantra

Om Namh Shivay (ॐ नमः शिवाय )

Rudrabhishek Mantra

ॐ नम: शम्भवाय च मयोभवाय च नम: शंकराय च
मयस्कराय च नम: शिवाय च शिवतराय च ॥

ईशानः सर्वविद्यानामीश्व रः सर्वभूतानां ब्रह्माधिपतिर्ब्रह्मणोऽधिपति
ब्रह्मा शिवो मे अस्तु सदाशिवोय्‌ ॥

तत्पुरुषाय विद्महे महादेवाय धीमहि। तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥
अघोरेभ्योथघोरेभ्यो घोरघोरतरेभ्यः सर्वेभ्यः सर्व सर्वेभ्यो नमस्ते अस्तु रुद्ररुपेभ्यः ॥

वामदेवाय नमो ज्येष्ठारय नमः श्रेष्ठारय नमो
रुद्राय नमः कालाय नम: कलविकरणाय नमो बलविकरणाय नमः
बलाय नमो बलप्रमथनाथाय नमः सर्वभूतदमनाय नमो मनोन्मनाय नमः ॥

सद्योजातं प्रपद्यामि सद्योजाताय वै नमो नमः ।
भवे भवे नाति भवे भवस्व मां भवोद्‌भवाय नमः ॥

नम: सायं नम: प्रातर्नमो रात्र्या नमो दिवा ।
भवाय च शर्वाय चाभाभ्यामकरं नम: ॥

यस्य नि:श्र्वसितं वेदा यो वेदेभ्योsखिलं जगत् ।
निर्ममे तमहं वन्दे विद्यातीर्थ महेश्वरम् ॥

त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिबर्धनम् उर्वारूकमिव बन्धनान् मृत्योर्मुक्षीय मा मृतात् ॥

सर्वो वै रुद्रास्तस्मै रुद्राय नमो अस्तु । पुरुषो वै रुद्र: सन्महो नमो नम: ॥

विश्वा भूतं भुवनं चित्रं बहुधा जातं जायामानं च यत् । सर्वो ह्येष रुद्रस्तस्मै रुद्राय नमो अस्तु ॥

When does a Rudrabhishek puja take place?

Rudrabhishek puja takes place in the month of Shravan. It is a rainy month according to Hinduism. The month is in July-August.

The 6 special types of Rudrabhishek puja

Many devotees believe that instead of doing a regular puja or an ordinary puja, if a puja is done specially, then there are more chances of receiving love and blessings from God. In the case of Rudrabhishek puja too, there 6 specialties. Let’s get to them one by one.

Jal Abhishek

According to holy books, if Jal Abhishek is done the Lord Shiva rewards with good vridhti and fulfills one’s desires. Vrishti means more water.

If a devotee pours milk on the shivling and worships him then, it is believed that he gets longevity as a reward.

Shahad Abhishek

Shahad means honey in Hindi. If a devotee worships the Shivling with honey then he can live his life freely and happily. He is freed from all of life’s troubles and misfortunes.

Panchamrit Abhishek

Panchamrit is blended with 5 different elements namely milk, curd, sugar candy, honey, and ghee. These 5 elements together form the panchamrit. They are poured on the Shivling and Lord Shiva is worshipped. It is believed that the devotee is blessed with wealth and prosperity.

Ghee Abhishek

This prevents any form of illness or physical problems from falling on the devotee.

Dahi Abhishek

This helps a childless couple to have a child.