Kojagari Laxmi Puja 2023: A Guide to Celebrating the Festival

As autumn sets in, the festive season in India kicks off with a plethora of celebrations, and one such significant festival is Kojagari Laxmi Puja. Celebrated mostly in the eastern parts of India, especially West Bengal, this festival is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity. Kojagari refers to the night of the full moon, and Laxmi Puja is the worship of Goddess Laxmi. This festival holds immense importance for devotees seeking blessings for wealth, prosperity, and well-being. In 2023, Kojagari Laxmi Puja falls on the 10th of October.

History and Significance of Kojagari Laxmi Puja

The festival of Kojagari Laxmi Puja has its roots in ancient Hindu mythology. It is believed that on the night of Sharad Purnima, Goddess Laxmi descends on Earth and showers her blessings on those who observe the rituals and fast on this day. According to the Puranas, Goddess Laxmi visits devotees’ homes and blesses them with wealth, prosperity, and happiness.

Rituals and Traditions

Preparations

• Cleaning and Decorations: Homes are cleaned and decorated with rangoli designs, flowers, and lights to welcome the Goddess.
• Altar Setup: An altar or thakur ghor is set up where the idols of Goddess Laxmi, Lord Ganesha, and other deities are placed.
• Ingredients: Required puja ingredients include flowers, fruits, sweets, incense sticks, lamps, and new clothes.

Fasting and Puja

• Devotees observe a day-long fast until the puja is completed in the evening.
• The puja starts in the evening and involves chanting of mantras, offering prayers, aarti, and singing devotional songs.
• Dhunuchi Nach (traditional dance with a smoking earthen pot) is a common sight during the puja.

Prasad and Feasting

• Devotees offer bhog to the Goddess, which includes sweets, fruits, and other delicacies.
• After the puja, the prasad is distributed among family members and guests.
• A feast comprising of traditional Bengali dishes is prepared to mark the occasion.

Connecting with the Divine

The essence of Kojagari Laxmi Puja lies in connecting with the divine and seeking the blessings of Goddess Laxmi for a prosperous life. The rituals and traditions followed during this festival are not just a form of worship but a way to express gratitude and devotion towards the Goddess.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the significance of Kojagari Laxmi Puja?

2. Kojagari Laxmi Puja is dedicated to seeking the blessings of Goddess Laxmi for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.

3. Can anyone observe Kojagari Laxmi Puja?

4. Yes, Kojagari Laxmi Puja can be observed by anyone seeking the blessings of Goddess Laxmi, irrespective of age or gender.

5. What should one wear during the puja?

6. It is advisable to wear traditional attire while performing the puja as a mark of respect and devotion.

7. Can non-Bengalis celebrate Kojagari Laxmi Puja?

8. Yes, people from all communities can participate in the celebrations of Kojagari Laxmi Puja to seek the blessings of Goddess Laxmi.

9. What is the best time to perform the puja?

10. The ideal time to perform Kojagari Laxmi Puja is during the evening on Sharad Purnima, as it is believed to be auspicious.

11. Are there any specific mantras to chant during the puja?

12. Yes, there are specific mantras dedicated to Goddess Laxmi that can be chanted during the puja for invoking her blessings.

13. Is the fasting compulsory during Kojagari Laxmi Puja?

14. While fasting is a common practice during Kojagari Laxmi Puja, it is not compulsory, and one can participate in the puja without fasting as well.

15. How is Kojagari Laxmi Puja different from Diwali Laxmi Puja?

16. Kojagari Laxmi Puja is observed on Sharad Purnima and precedes Diwali Laxmi Puja, which is celebrated during the Diwali festival.

17. Can I perform Kojagari Laxmi Puja at home?

18. Yes, you can perform Kojagari Laxmi Puja at home by following the rituals and traditions associated with the puja.

19. What is the traditional offering made to Goddess Laxmi during the puja?

    • The traditional offerings made to Goddess Laxmi during Kojagari Laxmi Puja include sweets, fruits, flowers, and incense.

Conclusion

Kojagari Laxmi Puja is not just a festival but a spiritual journey that allows devotees to connect with Goddess Laxmi on a deeper level. The rituals, fasting, prayers, and feasting associated with this festival create an atmosphere of devotion and prosperity in every home. By seeking the blessings of Goddess Laxmi during Kojagari Laxmi Puja, devotees invite prosperity and abundance into their lives, making it a significant and auspicious occasion in the Hindu calendar.