Goddess Lakshmi: Stories, Symbols and Why She Is Worshipped on Diwali

Lakshmi, also called Shri, is one of the best-loved goddesses of Hinduism. She is the consort of Vishnu and the deity of prosperity, fortune, beauty and grace. Her worship on Diwali night is among the most widespread rituals in India.

Origin stories

The best-known account is the churning of the ocean by gods and demons, in which Lakshmi rose from the waters holding a lotus and chose Vishnu as her husband. The tale is told in Samudra Manthan. In other traditions she is the daughter of the sage Bhrigu, or a manifestation of the Great Goddess. When Vishnu appears as Rama, Lakshmi appears as Sita; as Krishna, she appears as Radha or Rukmini.

Reading her image

Lakshmi's iconography is full of symbolism.

• Lotus: purity and spiritual growth, blooming above muddy water.
• Gold coins flowing from her hand: wealth that is meant to be given and shared.
• Elephants: royal authority and abundance, often shown pouring water over her (Gajalakshmi).
• Owl: her traditional vehicle in many accounts, representing the ability to see in darkness.
• Red and gold clothing: auspiciousness and prosperity.

The Ashta Lakshmi

Tradition speaks of eight forms of Lakshmi, called Ashta Lakshmi, each representing a kind of wealth: Adi Lakshmi (primal), Dhana (money), Dhanya (grain), Gaja (strength and royalty), Santana (children), Dhairya (courage), Vijaya (victory) and Vidya (knowledge). The list shows that prosperity in Indian thought is wider than money.

Why Diwali?

Diwali falls on a new-moon night, when the sky is dark. Homes are cleaned and lit so that Lakshmi, who is believed to visit places that are bright and welcoming, may enter. Some stories also associate the day with her emergence from the ocean. In other regions, the goddess is honoured at a different time, as in Bengal's moonlit Sharad Purnima worship.

Lakshmi in daily life

Many Hindu homes keep a small image of Lakshmi, especially on Fridays, a day associated with her. Others recite the Shri Suktam or sing aartis. The idea is not simple wish-granting. It is a reminder to earn honestly and to use resources for the welfare of others.

To see how Lakshmi fits into the larger festival, read the overview in Diwali explained, or explore other goddesses in The Nine Forms of Durga.