Significance
Shri Panchami also known as Shri Lakshmi Panchami and Shri Vrata is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Laxmi Panchami is observed on the fifth day during the waxing phase of the moon in Chaitra month – Chaitra Shukla Paksha Panchami.
History
It is believed since ancient times that by worshipping Goodess Mahalaxmi with various Mantras, Stotras and other holy prayers on Chaitra Shukla Panchami people succeed in getting blessings of goddess mahalaxmi and afterwards their prayers offered to Gooddess Laxmi never go in vain.
How to Celebrate
First of all, a person should wake up early and take a bath. Then, a person should chant Goddess Laxmi’s mantras and begin the fast. During the worship, Goddess Laxmi’s idol should be placed on a platform. The idol should be cleaned with Panchamrit. Goddess Laxmi is worshipped with many different prayers.
Sandalwood, banana leaves, garland of flowers, rice, durva, red thread, supari, coconut and other things are used to worship Goddess Laxmi. After worshipping Goddess Laxmi, food is offered to Brahmanas. Some money is also given to them as Dakshina. A person keeping this fast receives a lot of wealth and auspicious results. A person should not consume food during this fast. He or she should only eat fruits, milk and sweets.
Goddess Laxmi is a symbol of wealth and success. She is one of the three most powerful Devis. Goddess Laxmi is also associated with feelings related to attraction and greed. She provides everyone with wealth and success. A person achieves success and all his problems are resolved if he worships Goddess Laxmi.
Shri Lakshmi Panchami is considered ideal to propitiate Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that the prayers and observances dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi will help in attaining prosperity.
People perform special pujas to Goddess Lakshmi on the day. Some business people and traders conduct elaborate pujas on the day.