Lakshmi

Lakshmi is a major goddess in Hinduism, revered as the goddess of wealth, fortune, prosperity, and beauty. She is one of the Tridevi, alongside Saraswati and Parvati, and is the consort of Vishnu. The name lakṣmī means "she who possesses goods" or "prosperity."

Iconography commonly shows Lakshmi seated or standing on a lotus, with four arms. She typically holds lotus buds, and coins flow from one palm; two hands may be in abhaya or varada mudras. She is often depicted with elephants or other symbols of auspiciousness, emphasizing abundance and grace.

Origins and myths associate Lakshmi with the churning of the Ocean of Milk (samudra manthan), where she emerged and chose Vishnu as her consort, symbolizing the alignment of wealth with cosmic order. In Vaishnava worship, she is regarded as the energy (shakti) of Vishnu and a source of blessings for devotees.

Worship and cultural significance: Lakshmi is honored in homes and temples across Hindu traditions, especially during festivals such as Diwali, when Lakshmi Puja is performed to invite wealth and well-being. Dhanteras and other daily rituals also emphasize her role as the giver of prosperity and good fortune.

Ashtalakshmi: In many traditions, eight forms of Lakshmi are recognized as Ashtalakshmi, representing different aspects of prosperity: Adi Lakshmi (Primeval), Dhana Lakshmi (Wealth), Dhanya Lakshmi (Agriculture), Gaja Lakshmi (Elephants/Strength), Santana Lakshmi (Progeny), Veera Lakshmi (Courage), Vijaya Lakshmi (Victory), and Yoga or Vidya Lakshmi (Knowledge/Spiritual Liberation).