The Mahalakshmi Vrat festival is one of the most sacred observances in Hindu culture. Dedicated to Maa Lakshmi — the Goddess of Prosperity, Fortune and Wealth — the fast is observed for 16 consecutive days. It begins on ashtami tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month, and ends on the 8th day of Krishna Paksha (ashtami) that falls in the Ashwin month. According to the Gregorian calendar, the 16-day period falls in September-October. The fast commences four days after Ganesh Chaturthi. This Hindu Festival is the most popular in the regions of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Also See: Laxmi Aarti
Among the many legends associated with Mahalakshmi vrat, the Bhavishya Purana states that the eldest of Pandavas, Yudhisthir asked Lord Krishna to suggest ways to regain wealth lost to the Kauravas in gambling. Lord Krishna advised him to observe the Mahalakshmi Vrat that blesses devotees with good fortune, wealth and prosperity.
Another legend says that Lord Shiva asked Goddess Parvati to observe the fast for wealth and good fortune. Another one mentions Goddess Lakshmi visiting a woman, Charumati in her dreams, to ask her to observe the fast. Charumati observed the fast with other women, and upon completion of the same, they found themselves covered with jewels and homes full of riches. Ever since, women (and men) observe the fast to gain prosperity.
The day also coincides with Durva Ashtami Vrat where Durva grass is worshipped performed. Other important festivals celebrated on the same day include Radha Ashtami and Jyeshta Devi Puja.
Mahalakshmi Vrat Procedure is a simple one to follow. Those who cannot observe the fast for 16 days can also observe the same for three days (first, eighth and sixteenth day of this period).
Consuming alcohol and eating non-vegetarian is strictly prohibited during the period of observing Mahalakshmi Vrat.
Devotees should read religious books or scriptures like Satanamavali, Lakshmi Ashtottara, Lakshmi Sahastranaam that are believed to be very auspicious.
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