Pallavi Sharma
Shimla:
As homes across Himachal Pradesh get decked up with rows of flickering diyas and the fragrance of incense fills the air, preparations are in full swing for Diwali, the festival of lights that celebrates prosperity, purity and divine blessings.
On this day, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, inviting wealth and wisdom into their homes. But spiritual experts say that a few mistakes during idol selection or the pooja itself can prevent the goddess of wealth from taking permanent residence in your home.
Acharya Om Prakash, a Chandigarh-based spiritual scholar, advises devotees to be mindful while buying idols or images of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha. “Never buy idols where both deities are cast together in a single frame. Each should be worshipped in separate vigrahas or statues. This ensures balance between wisdom (Ganesha) and wealth (Lakshmi),” he explained.
Acharya Om Prakash said that the position, form and even material of the idols matter in ensuring auspicious results. Here are nine essential dos and don’ts for devotees this Diwali:
- Separate idols, not one frame
Always purchase idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha separately. Combined figurines are considered inauspicious for worship.
- Seated posture brings stability
Ensure both deities are in a seated posture, symbolising calmness and permanence. Avoid idols where they appear standing, as it denotes transience.
- Mind the mounts
Goddess Lakshmi’s owl should not appear as her seat, while Lord Ganesha’s idol must include his mouse (mooshak) — his loyal vehicle and a symbol of humility.
- The modak sign
Select idols where Ganesha holds a modak (sweet) in his hand, a sign of contentment and prosperity.
- Lakshmi on the lotus
Goddess Lakshmi should be depicted sitting on a lotus, with one hand holding a flower and the other blessing devotees. This symbolises purity and grace.
- Avoid damaged or broken Idols
Never bring home idols that are chipped, cracked or damaged in any way. Such idols are believed to block fortune and peace.
- Choose clay over chemical
Opt for idols made of natural clay rather than cement or plaster of Paris. Clay idols are eco-friendly and spiritually purer.
- Colour code essential too
Idols in shades of red, golden, pink or yellow are considered highly auspicious as they represent energy, prosperity, and positivity.
- Right placement during worship
During Diwali pooja, always place Goddess Lakshmi on the right side of Lord Ganesha. The right-side placement signifies balance and harmony between intellect and wealth.
Acharya Om Prakash further said that idols made of gold, silver, brass or ashtadhatu (eight-metal alloy) bring enduring fortune, while crystal idols too can be worshipped if all other precautions are observed. “Diwali is not just about lighting lamps but awakening the light within. If rituals are done mindfully, Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings never leave your home,” he said with a smile.
