- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 11 Sep 2024 12:43 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024: The sacred Mahalaxmi Vrat is a significant festival in Hindu culture, dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, the embodiment of prosperity, fortune, and wealth. Commencing on the Ashtami tithi of Shukla Paksha in Bhadrapada, it concludes on the eighth day of Krishna Paksha in Ashwin, typically falling in September-October. This auspicious period begins four days after Ganesh Chaturthi, allowing devotees to seek Goddess Lakshmi's blessings and guidance. Through prayer, fasting, and devotion, individuals strive to invoke the goddess's benevolence, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious life. This sacred observance is a testament to the significance of Goddess Lakshmi in Hindu tradition. This year, Mahalaxmi Vrat began on 11th September 2024.
Check out all significant details regarding the end date, puja vidhi, vrat katha and significance of this sacred fast.
Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024: Start And End Date
- Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024 Start Date: 11th September 2024, Wednesday
- Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024 End Date: 24th September 2024, Tuesday
- Ashtami Tithi Begins: 11:11 PM, 10th September 2024
- Ashtami Tithi Ends: 11:46 PM, 11th September 2024
- Moonrise Time: 1:20 PM, 11th September 2024
Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024: Significance
According to the Bhavishya Purana, Lord Krishna advised Yudhisthir, the eldest Pandava, to observe Mahalaxmi Vrat to regain lost wealth. This legend highlights the Vrat's significance in attaining good fortune and prosperity. Another legend narrates Lord Shiva's guidance to Goddess Parvati to observe the fast for wealth and prosperity. Additionally, a legend tells the story of Goddess Lakshmi appearing in Charumati's dream, requesting her to observe the fast, resulting in Charumati and other women gaining immense wealth and jewels after completing the vrat.
Mahalaxmi Vrat coincides with other significant festivals, including Durva Ashtami Vrat, where Durva grass is worshipped, Radha Ashtami, and Jyeshta Devi Puja. These coinciding festivals amplify the importance of the day, emphasizing the themes of prosperity, good fortune, and devotion. By observing Mahalakshmi Vrat, devotees seek to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, ensuring a prosperous and harmonious life. The convergence of these festivals underscores the significance of this auspicious day in Hindu tradition.
Mahalaxmi Vrat, honours Maa Lakshmi, Goddess of Prosperity, Fortune, and Wealth, seeking her blessings and divine grace. (Image Source: Canva)
Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024: Puja Vidhi
Devotees begin their day with an early morning bath, followed by puja offerings to Goddess Lakshmi for 16 consecutive days. Some also offer arghya to the sun god at sunrise. A Kalash, symbolizing prosperity, is filled with water and rice, covered with betel and mango leaves, and placed on a rice-filled plate in front of the goddess's idol. Devotees wear a thread with 16 knots on their left hand, representing the 16 days of the observance.
Each day, devotees worship all eight avatars of Mahalaxmi. They tie 16 Durva grass blades together, dip them in water, and sprinkle the water over their bodies. The daily rituals conclude with the recitation of Mahalakshmi Vrat Katha. These meticulous observances demonstrate the devotees' dedication to seeking Goddess Lakshmi's blessings and prosperity. By following these rituals, devotees aim to invoke the goddess's benevolence and guidance throughout the vrat period.
Mahalaxmi Vrat 2024: Vrat Katha
- Yudhishtira's Story
In the Mahabharata, Yudhishtira sought Lord Krishna's guidance to regain his lost wealth. Krishna advised him to observe the Mahalakshmi Vrat, promising regained wealth and Goddess Lakshmi's blessings. Yudhishtira followed the 16-day fast, successfully regaining his wealth. This legend highlights the vrat's significance in restoring prosperity and inviting Goddess Lakshmi's benevolence. By following Krishna's advice, Yudhishtira ensured the Pandavas' well-being and fortune.
- Brahmin's Story
A devout Brahmin sought Lord Vishnu's guidance to invite Goddess Lakshmi into his home. Vishnu instructed him to invite a mysterious woman found at the temple, revealed to be Mahalaxmi. She guided the Brahmin to observe the 16-day Mahalakshmi Vrat and perform the corresponding puja. By doing so, the Brahmin received Goddess Lakshmi's divine blessings and her presence in his home. This story showcases the vrat's power in inviting Goddess Lakshmi's grace and prosperity.
- Charumati's Story
Charumati, a devout woman, was instructed by Goddess Lakshmi in a dream to observe the Mahalakshmi Vrat for 16 days. Charumati and her friends followed the goddess's guidance, earning them rich blessings and jewels. This legend emphasizes the vrat's significance in seeking Goddess Lakshmi's blessings and prosperity. By observing the Mahalakshmi Vrat, devotees can invite Goddess Lakshmi's benevolence and grace, leading to a fulfilling life.
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(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)