India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions. And when we talk of the Hindu culture, it's the festivities and various different Gods that first come to our mind. Among these, Lord Ganesh, the remover of all obstacles, and Goddess Laxmi, the symbol of wealth and prosperity are two of the most revered deities.
However, have you ever wondered why they are mostly worshipped together, as a pair, or placed in a certain direction and position? If yes, then this blog will answer all your questions.
The Significance and Origin of Goddess Laxmi
Maa Laxmi holds a higher significance in Hindu mythology as the Goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune. According to the legends, she originated from the most epic event of Samudra Manthan (churning go the ocean) as a beautiful female figure, sitting on a lotus. Goddess Laxmi is the consort of Lord Vishnu, and likewise him, she also took various avatars in order to be with his beloved husband.
She is often depicted sitting in padmasana on a lotus flower with four hands representing the four aspects of life i.e., Dharma (righteousness), Kama (desire), Artha (wealth), and Moksha (liberation).
Also Read: The Significance Behind the Lotus Feet of Shri Krishna
The Significance and Origin of Lord Ganesh
Ganesh is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to the popular mythological stories regarding his creation, it is believed that Goddess Parvati created him using sandalwood dough and later infused life into him. Moving ahead, she instructed him to not let anyone get inside the premises while she was away for her bathing session.
Ganesh willingly agreed to follow her instructions. However, after a while, Lord Shiva returned, and upon seeing him enter the premises, Ganesh obstructed, asking him to wait until her mother was back. Unaware of the fact that Ganesh was Parvati’s child, Lord Shiva in all rage and anger slashed off Ganesh’s head.
Learning about this incident left Goddess Parvati in great despair and grief. Seeing this also saddened Lord Shiva and hence he decided to fix the entire situation. He asked his helpers to find a head facing the northward direction.
While searching for the head, the helpers found an elephant’s head facing north and decided to take it along. Lord Shiva then finally fixed it to the torso of the little boy and brought him back to life, granting him various supreme powers.
Today, Lord Ganesh stands as a symbol of protection, intelligence, and good fortune. He’s depicted with an elephant head with a long trunk, a big round pot belly, and four hands carrying a noose, a lotus, laddoos, and one hand showering blessings upon his devotees.
Also Read : Gayatri Mantra Meaning
The Right Position to Keep Ganesh Laxmi Murti
Just like all the Gods in Hindu mythology, Laxmi idol and Ganesh should be placed in accordance with the vastu shashtra.
Here’s how you should position your Laxmi Ganesh idols:
- Place the idols in the northeastern corner of your home or temple room. If this direction is not quite accessible, try placing the idols facing the west or north direction.
- Always place Ganesh on the left of Goddess Laxmi.
- Both the idols you place should be in a seated position as they signify a positive omen.
- When purchasing a Ganesh murti for home, make sure that Ganesh’s trunk is directed towards the left. Likewise, if you desire stability and progress in your life, ensure that the Laxmi idol you bring home is depicted sitting in a Kamalasana.
Areas to Avoid While Placing Ganesh Laxmi Murti
Besides learning about what to do, it's also important to know about what not to do while placing the Laxmi Ganesh idols. Here are some points to consider:
- Never put the idols in the bedroom, garage, store room, or near the bathroom.
- Avoid placing the Ganesh-Laxmi idols facing the south direction.
- Make sure to never install the idols against the walls attached to the bathroom or toilet.
- Avoid placing more than one Ganesh idol in your home.
Meanwhile, note that incorrect placement of the idols can draw bad or negative energy to your home and disturb the positive environment.
Why Laxmi & Ganesh Are Worshipped Together?
Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesh share a mother-son relationship. Well, this might come as a bit of a surprise for you, but it's true. According to the scriptures, Goddess Laxmi once approached Goddess Parvati with a heavy heart, sharing her desire to experience motherhood and have a child. Seeing Goddess Laxmi in such pain and despair, Parvati decided to give her Lord Ganesh to her.
Goddess Laxmi was really happy upon receiving Lord Ganesh as her child, Goddess Laxmi. She in return, promised Parvati to bestow Ganesh with all her accomplishments and always put him first. Ever since then, Laxmi and Ganesh are worshipped together.
Takeaway
In the end, know that the rightful placement of Laxmi Ganesh idols is important to get all the positive blessings of the holy deity. In case you’re not well aware of the rituals and traditions regarding the placement of the idols, reach out to an experienced priest who can guide you with the right practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q. Can we keep 2 Ganesh idols at home?
A. As per the Vastu Shastra, it's best to keep only one idol of Lord Ganesh at your home, office, or home temple.
Q. Which direction should Ganpati Murti be facing?
A. Keep your Ganesh statue facing toward the west, north, or northeast direction.
Q. Which Ganesh idol is not good for home?
A. According to the Vastu experts, the idol with a trunk directed towards the right of Ganesh is not considered good for home. Hence, make sure to consider this aspect before buying the Ganesh idol.
Q. What are the benefits of Laxmi Ganesh idols?
A. Keeping Laxmi Ganesh idols and worshipping them regularly is said to bring good health, wealth, and happiness to one’s life.
Q. Which direction should Ganesh's image face in the home?
A. All Ganesh’s images should face the north direction of your home.
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