Margashirsha Lakshmi Puja is observed on Thursdays in the month of Margashirsh (November – December). This puja is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi, the Hindu Goddess of fortune and prosperity. Fasting from sunrise to sunset Thursday in the month is considered highly meritorious. Here is a simple explanation on how to observe Margashirsha Laxmi Puja.
The Lakshmi puja and fasting (Vrat) is performed by both men and women. Married couples perform it together.
The most important aspect on the day is cleanliness. Home and premises should be kept neat and clean.
The fast begins after morning bath. Prayers are offered to Ganesha and Lakshmi in the morning hours after bath.
Fasting is from Sunrise
People eat fruits, banana and milk while observing the fast on the day.
Those observing the Margashirsh Lakshmi puja invite seven married and seven young girls on the first day of the puja offer them fruits, haldi kumkum and a book containing the Mahalakshmi Vrat Katha.
Mahalakshmi puja is observed in the evening on the day. Devotees read the Mahalakshmi Vrat Katha and Mahalakshmi Mahatmya.
Sri Mahalakshmi Aarti and Mahalakshmi Naman Ashtak are chanted on the day.
In the evening, after Lakshmi puja vegetarian food is eaten usually the Prasad offered to Goddess Lakshmi.