Goddess of Fortune
Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, fortune, prosperity, and beauty, and the beloved consort of Vishnu. Radiant and golden, she is shown seated or standing on a lotus, holding lotus blossoms, with coins streaming from her hands and flanking elephants pouring water over her.
Her name comes from the Sanskrit lakṣ, meaning "to perceive" or "to aim," tied to lakshya, a goal — fitting for a goddess who embodies the good fortune people strive toward. She is also called Shri, an honorific meaning "radiance" and "auspiciousness."
Lakshmi emerged during the Samudra Manthana, the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk, rising fully formed upon a lotus as the gods and demons stirred the waters. She chose Vishnu as her eternal partner and accompanies him in each of his avatars. She is honored above all during Diwali, the festival of lights, when households welcome her to bring a year of abundance.
Purity and spiritual power rising above worldly mire.
Royal authority and life-giving rains.
Material and spiritual wealth she bestows.
Common Questions
How was Lakshmi born?
She arose from the churning of the ocean of milk, the Samudra Manthana, emerging on a lotus to choose Vishnu as her consort.
Why is Lakshmi worshipped during Diwali?
Devotees invite her into their homes on Diwali to secure prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.
