Selecting an idol of Goddess Lakshmi on Dhanteras requires careful attention to the deity's depiction and posture. According to Pandit Kalki Ram, an idol meant for household placement should always feature the goddess in a seated posture, a form regarded as particularly auspicious for establishing stability and prosperity within the home.
Selecting the Lotus Posture
When purchasing the sacred idol, the seat of the goddess holds significant importance. Traditional religious beliefs recommend choosing an idol where Goddess Lakshmi is seated upon a lotus flower rather than an owl. Being seated on a lotus symbolizes serenity, domestic peace, and enduring prosperity in daily life.
Yellow Cowries and Gomti Chakra as Alternatives
According to Pandit Kalki Ram, individuals who are unable to purchase precious metals like gold or silver due to financial constraints can bring home at least 16 yellow cowries from the market. This practice is recognized as an auspicious alternative in traditional beliefs. Additionally, purchasing either 11 or 16 Gomti Chakras is considered propitious, provided one ensures during purchase that none of the pieces are damaged or broken.
Evening Lamp Ritual and Cowrie Worship Steps
According to Pandit Kalki Ram, the festive tradition includes lighting 13 ghee lamps across the house on the evening of Dhanteras. As part of this customary observance, cowries are placed inside these lit lamps.
Following this ritual, the remaining 3 cowries should be placed upon a clean red cotton cloth in front of Goddess Lakshmi. Devotees then apply a tilak of turmeric and kumkum on these sacred shells, light a nearby lamp, and recite the traditional mantras dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi.
