Diwali Lakshmi Puja: Correct Muhurat & Vidhi

Diwali’s heart is the evening Lakshmi-Ganesh puja, performed in Pradosh Kaal (the two hours after sunset) on Kartik Amavasya.

Order of the puja

Ganesh is invoked first (obstacles first, always), then Mahalakshmi is worshipped with lotus, rice, red flowers and sweets — traditionally with a kalash filled with water and mango leaves as the seat.

The diyas

Light ghee diyas at the main door, puja room and all corners — the tradition says Lakshmi enters only an illumined home.

Common mistakes

Do not perform puja during Rahu Kaal; do not blow out diyas — let them exhaust naturally; and keep the puja place clean — Lakshmi is the goddess of order and cleanliness.