Introduction to the Festival:
Labh Panchami, also known as Saubhagya Panchami or Gyan Panchami, is celebrated on the fifth day after Diwali, that is, on the Panchami Tithi of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Kartik. This festival is especially popular in Gujarat and holds great significance among the business community, who consider it an auspicious day to begin new ventures. On this day, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped to seek blessings for prosperity, good fortune, and wisdom in life.
Legend:
According to a popular legend associated with Labh Panchami, once a merchant devotedly worshipped Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on this day. He opened a new account book (bahikhata) and prayed for success in his business. Pleased with his faith and devotion, Goddess Lakshmi blessed him with continuous prosperity, and his business flourished ever since. From that time onward, it is believed that worshipping on Labh Panchami brings profit and prosperity in trade and business.
Why Do We Celebrate This Festival?
Labh Panchami is celebrated to attain prosperity, good fortune, and knowledge in life. The day holds special importance for traders and business owners, as they begin their new account books on this occasion. By worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, people pray for financial growth, peace, and happiness in their lives.
Main Traditions of the Festival:
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Bath and Worship: People take a bath early in the morning, wear red clothes, and offer water to the Sun God.
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Idol Installation: Idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are installed at the place of worship.
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Lighting Lamps: Lamps filled with ghee are lit, and worship is performed with camphor and incense sticks.
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Offerings: Offerings such as kheer (sweet rice pudding), grapes, lotus flowers, and white sweets are made to Goddess Lakshmi.
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Opening of Account Books: Traders begin their new account books, writing the words “Shubh” (auspicious) and “Labh” (profit), along with the Swastika symbol.
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Charity: Donating to the needy is considered highly auspicious on this day.
Significance of the Festival:
Labh Panchami symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and good fortune. It is especially significant for the business community, who start their new account books on this day. By worshipping Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, people seek blessings for financial progress, success, and peace in their lives.