Diwali, the most significant and beloved festival of lights in India, is just around the corner, falling on October 31st this year. It’s a time of joy, celebration, and spiritual reflection, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. During this joyous occasion, many families set up idols of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking their blessings for prosperity, peace, and success. But did you know that the direction in which you place these idols holds great significance?
According to Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian system of architecture and design that emphasizes harmony between humans and the natural world, the placement of deities plays a crucial role in attracting positive energies. The most auspicious directions for placing Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are east and north. These directions are associated with positive attributes like new beginnings, wealth, and prosperity.
The Ideal Placement:
*
Facing East or North:
Ideally, the idols should face either east or north. These directions are believed to be conducive to attracting positive energy, prosperity, and new beginnings. The person performing the puja should also face one of these directions, preferably east.*
East:
The east is the direction of the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings, positivity, and the dawn of a new era.*
North:
North is traditionally associated with wealth and prosperity, making it especially favorable for Lakshmi puja, as Goddess Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth.Placement of the Idols:
*
Lord Ganesha:
The remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha, should be placed on the left-hand side when facing the idols. In Hindu rituals, Ganesha is always worshipped first as he is the harbinger of good fortune and success. His placement to the left symbolizes balance and harmony.*
Goddess Lakshmi:
Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, and abundance, should be placed on the right-hand side of Lord Ganesha. Her position to the right of Ganesha signifies her blessings on those who seek wealth in a rightful manner.*
Goddess Saraswati:
If you are also worshipping Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge, she is typically placed to the right of Lakshmi. This arrangement forms a sacred trinity of wisdom, wealth, and success.Elevation and Platform:
The idols should be placed on a clean and decorated raised platform or altar. A wooden or metal chowki (small platform) covered with a red, yellow, or white cloth is ideal. These colors are considered holy and signify purity, prosperity, and energy. The platform should be high enough to ensure that the idols are not placed directly on the ground, which is considered inauspicious.
By following these directions and rituals, you can create a harmonious and auspicious environment for your Diwali puja, inviting the blessings of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi into your home and life. May your Diwali be filled with joy, light, and prosperity!
