Laxmi Puja (Tihar) in Nepal

Laxmi Puja, part of the Tihar festival in Nepal, is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity, Goddess Laxmi. Tihar is also known as Deepawali or Yamapanchak and is celebrated for five days, usually falling in late October or early November.

History and Traditions:

• The festival holds historical significance rooted in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
• It's believed that Goddess Laxmi roams the Earth on the night of Laxmi Puja, and those who stay awake all night are blessed with wealth and prosperity.
• The third day of Tihar is specifically designated for Laxmi Puja.
• People clean their houses to welcome the goddess, believing that cleanliness attracts her presence.

Activities on Laxmi Puja:

• Rangoli Art: Intricate patterns, known as Rangoli, are created using colored powders and flowers at entrances to homes and businesses as a warm welcome for Goddess Laxmi.
• Lighting Diyas: Oil lamps (diyas) are lit around homes and workplaces. The lights are believed to help guide the goddess to people's homes.
• Puja Rituals: Special prayers and offerings are made to Goddess Laxmi. Families gather for a ritualistic puja involving incense, fruits, sweets, flowers, and money.
• Bhailo Songs: Children go from house to house singing traditional Bhailo songs and receive money, sweets, or fruits in return.
• Gambling: It's customary for people to engage in gambling during this festival; it's considered auspicious with a belief that it brings good luck.

The celebration of Laxmi Puja fosters community bonding as well as individual prosperity hopes among Nepalese people. It's a time when spiritual reverence combines with cultural festivities.