Padma or Padmaja is one among the numerous names of Goddess
Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Lotus is very dear to Goddess
Lakshmi and she holds it in one of her four hands. It is also a symbol of
purity and auspiciousness. Goddess Lakshmi is known as Padma or Padmaja because
she sits on lotus flower.
Lotus flower is also one of the important offerings to
Goddess Lakshmi.
The flower is also dear to Vishnu. Lotus in the hand of
Vishnu symbolizes creation and sustenance of the universe.