The number of wicks (battis or thiri) that are lit in a traditional Hindu lamp is a confusion for many Hindus. There are numerous theories regarding the number of wicks. But the traditional and widely accepted number of wick is 1 or 2 or 5 or 7. One wick indicates good health, two wicks indicate prosperity, five wicks indicate auspiciousness and peace and seven wicks indicate success.
It is also believed by some communities that daily lighting two wicks in a traditional lamp in the evening is good for children in the home. It is also believed to bring in prosperity.
Some people are of the view that lighting three wicks will bring diseases and troubles.
Lighting four wicks is believed to create poverty.
It is also said that before lighting the lamp one should keep the surroundings and the home clean. Otherwise the lamp lit will be an invitation to Alakshmi – who destroy peace, causes bad luck and creates economic downfall.