Mahalaxmi Puja Celebrated in Indore During Ganesh Utsav
- Mahalaxmi puja begins on the fourth day of the Ganesh festival, marking the Goddess's arrival at her mother's home.
- Families engage in extensive preparations, including cleaning, cooking, and decorating, to honor the Goddess.
- The festival fosters community spirit and strengthens family bonds through shared rituals and celebrations.
The Mahalaxmi puja, celebrated in Indore, coincides with the Ganesh festival, enhancing the festive spirit. This three-day event, which begins on the fourth day of Ganesh Utsav, marks the arrival of Goddess Mahalaxmi to her maternal home. Traditionally, families prepare for the festival by cleaning their homes and cooking special delicacies, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the Goddess. Devotees dress in new clothes and adorn the mukuts, which are symbolic representations of the Goddess and her children. The first day of the puja involves rituals such as bathing and dressing the mukuts, which are treated with reverence. On the second day, a significant mahaaarti is performed, and families prepare a feast featuring five sweets and a variety of seasonal vegetables. This day is also marked by the 'Otibharni' ritual and 'haldikumkum' for invited women, fostering community and familial bonds. As the festival progresses, the third day signifies the departure of the Gauris, symbolizing the end of the homecoming celebration. Women in the household wear a yellow thread around their necks as a blessing from the Goddess, signifying protection and prosperity. This ritual not only strengthens familial ties but also emphasizes the importance of tradition in the community. Overall, the Mahalaxmi puja serves as a reminder of the cultural heritage and the significance of family gatherings during festive occasions, reinforcing the values of devotion, togetherness, and celebration in Indore's vibrant community.