Thu Oct 31 17:46:10 UTC 2024: ## Diwali Puja 2024: Why is Lakshmi Puja Performed at Night?
**New Delhi:** The festive season of Diwali has begun in India with Dhanteras. Diwali, celebrated on the new moon night of the Kartik month, is a five-day long festival, culminating on **October 31st, 2024 (Thursday)** this year. The festival is marked by worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for prosperity and happiness. But why is the puja performed at night?
According to astrologer and Vastu expert, Rakesh Chaturvedi, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali is always performed at night, after sunset. There are religious, mythological, and astrological reasons behind this tradition.
**Religious Beliefs:**
– The night is considered auspicious for Goddess Lakshmi.
– Diwali falls on Amavasya, the new moon night, when there is no moon and darkness prevails. The lighting of diyas signifies welcoming Goddess Lakshmi and dispelling darkness and ignorance.
– It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha descend to Earth on this night and bestow their blessings based on one’s actions.
**Mythological Significance:**
– According to mythology, Goddess Lakshmi emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), which is believed to have taken place at night.
– It is also believed that Goddess Lakshmi wanders the Earth at night and blesses those homes that are clean and bright.
**Astrological Perspective:**
– The most auspicious time for Lakshmi puja is after sunset on Amavasya, known as Pradosh Kaal. This time, lasting for approximately three hours, is believed to be filled with positive energy.
Therefore, the tradition of performing Lakshmi puja at night during Diwali holds significance across religious, mythological, and astrological beliefs, highlighting the importance of welcoming prosperity and dispelling negativity.
First Piper 