Adi Lakshmi Introduction
Adi Lakshmi is considered the original and supreme divine form of Goddess Lakshmi. In Hinduism, she is considered the pillar of the creative power and prosperity of the entire universe. The word “Adi” means beginning or original form, hence Adi Lakshmi is worshipped as the primordial power that has existed since the beginning of creation. She is not only the goddess of wealth and opulence but is also known as the mother who grants spiritual peace, happiness and salvation.
Among the eight sacred forms of Ashtalakshmi, Adi Lakshmi is considered the highest. Devotees believe that the grace of Goddess Adi Lakshmi increases the flow of happiness, peace, spiritual progress and positive energy in life. In the Vaishnava tradition, the Goddess is described as the eternal power of Lord Vishnu, who helps in the maintenance and welfare of the creation.
Origin of Adi Lakshmi
The Puranas describe that Goddess Lakshmi appeared along with many divine gems during the churning of the ocean. That divine form is known as Adi Lakshmi. After appearing from the ocean, Goddess Lakshmi accepted Lord Vishnu as her lord and resided in Vaikuntha. Hence, she is considered to be the half-way power of Lord Vishnu and the power of the welfare of the entire creation.
According to religious beliefs, Adi Lakshmi not only provides material wealth but also spiritual prosperity and salvation. In the Vedas and Puranas, the Goddess is also worshipped by the gods. It is believed that worshipping her develops positivity, patience and spiritual awareness in life.
Form of Adi Lakshmi
The form of Goddess Adi Lakshmi is considered to be very divine, peaceful and radiant. She is depicted seated on a beautiful lotus seat and adorned with red clothes and golden ornaments. Her divine face is considered a symbol of compassion, peace and blessings.
Adi Lakshmi is depicted in a quadrilateral form. Her two arms are in the Abhaya and Varada mudras, which provide protection and blessings to the devotees. In the other two hands, she holds a lotus flower and a white flag, which symbolize purity, prosperity and spiritual victory.
Religious Importance of Aadi Lakshmi
In Hinduism, Aadi Lakshmi is worshipped to attain happiness, prosperity and peace in life. The goddess is especially worshipped during Diwali, Friday and Ashtalakshmi Puja. Devotees believe that her grace removes financial problems and brings happiness and prosperity to the house.
The worship of Aadi Lakshmi is also considered important for spiritual advancement. She leads the devotees to spiritual peace and salvation along with material happiness. That is why she is also known as “Moksha Pradayini”.
Aadi Lakshmi Mantra
Reciting her mantras and hymns is considered very auspicious to attain the grace of Goddess Aadi Lakshmi. Regular chanting brings peace, positivity and prosperity to the mind.
“Om Adhyalakshmi Namah”
Adi Lakshmi Stotra
“O Sumanas Vandit Sundari Madhavi, Chandra Sahodari Hemmaye. O Muniganamandit Mokshapradayini, Manjul Bhashini Vedanoote. O Pankajavasini Devsupjit, Sadgun Varshini Shantiyute. Jai Jai Hey Madhusudan Kamini, Adi Lakshmi Sada Palay Maam. ”
Adi Lakshmi's 108 Names
The 108 holy names of Goddess Adi Lakshmi are known as “Adi Lakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali”. Devotees seek the grace of the Goddess by reciting these names during special worship and fasts.
Major festivals associated with Aadi Lakshmi
Special worship of Goddess Aadi Lakshmi is performed during Diwali, Kojagari Purnima, Varalakshmi Vrat and Ashtalakshmi Puja. Ashtalakshmi Puja is celebrated with great devotion in temples of South India.
Famous temples of Aadi Lakshmi
The Ashtalakshmi Temple in Chennai, the Ashtalakshmi Temple in Ahmedabad and the Ashtalakshmi Temple in Hyderabad are among the famous pilgrimage places of Goddess Aadi Lakshmi. Devotees come here in large numbers to have darshan of the Goddess and pray for prosperity.