Diwali 2024: If Deepawali is celebrated for Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya, why is Goddess Lakshmi Worshipped on this day

Diwali 2024: Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals worldwide. There are numerous stories about why Diwali is celebrated. One of the main reasons for Diwali is Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya on the day of Kartick Amavasya, countless lamps were lit to welcome him. If Diwali is celebrated when Lord Ram returns to Ayodhya, then why is Goddess Lakshmi worshipped on this day?

The major Hindu festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Moreover, it brings people together in a joyful spirit of celebration, devotion, and togetherness.

When Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya, the festival of lights began and Diwali was celebrated. Well, everyone knows this story so what is the connection between Diwali and Goddess Lakshmi?

Why is Goddess Lakshmi Worshipped on Diwali?

As per the Markandeya Purana, when darkness sprinkled over the earth, a bright light emerged, revealing Goddess Lakshmi sitting on a lotus. The world was formed from her light, therefore Lakshmi Puja is a ritual on this day.

It is said in the Shrimad Bhagwat Purana that Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean as the eighth gem during the Samudra Manthan. Therefore, devotees decorate their homes and welcome Goddess Lakshmi by worshiping her, as she resides in clean, peaceful, and happy homes.

Moreover, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi on Diwali because she is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.

Lamps were lit on the return of Shri Ram

According to the Ramayana, Lord Ram with Maa Sita and Lakshman retired to Ayodhya on the day of Kartik Amavasya in the Treta Yuga. Plus, Diwali is a sign of celebration of the return of Lord Ram alongside Maa Sita and Lakshmana from 14 years of exile after defeating the demon king Ravana.

To welcome him, Ayodhya’s people lit lamps and distributed sweets. Since then this day has been marked every year by lit lamps and distributing sweets to honor the return of Shri Ram.