The festive season of Diwali is fast approaching, a time when households across the country engage in the worship of Lord Ganesha alongside Goddess Lakshmi. According to ancient traditions, the divine vehicle of Goddess Lakshmi, the owl, holds special significance during these celebrations. However, many wonder why the deity chose this particular bird as her mount. Furthermore, questions often arise about what it means to catch a glimpse of an owl on the night of Diwali and how one should react. Astrologer Akhilesh Pandey from Rishikesh has shed light on these intriguing aspects.
Festival Date and Traditional Worship Customs
In a detailed discussion, astrologer Akhilesh Pandey stated that the festival of Diwali this year falls on Sunday, November 8, 2026. On this evening, people thoroughly clean and decorate their homes before establishing the idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha for worship. During the ceremony, earthen lamps are lit, followed by the offering of flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense. The ritual concludes with the customary devotional arti of Goddess Lakshmi. Because Hindu beliefs designate the owl as the celestial vehicle of the Goddess, the creature assumes unique religious importance on this night.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Divine Mount
According to astrologer Akhilesh Pandey, the owl is widely regarded as a symbol of profound wisdom and intense alertness. It possesses the rare ability to see clearly even in pitch darkness and reaches its destination without ever losing its way. The underlying religious message behind Goddess Lakshmi selecting the owl involves a vital life lesson. It teaches that acquiring immense wealth and prosperity should never lead a person to develop arrogance or lose their intellect to greed. The imagery of the Goddess seated upon an owl conveys that individuals must learn not only how to earn money but also how to utilize it wisely.
Appropriate Actions Upon Spotting an Owl on Diwali
Akhilesh Pandey explains that encountering an owl on Diwali night is traditionally viewed as a highly auspicious omen. Given its association with Goddess Lakshmi, such a sighting is believed to foreshadow incoming wealth, happiness, and prosperity for the household. Should you happen to see an owl on Diwali day or night, there is no need to panic. Never attempt to chase it away or cause it any harm. Instead, fold your hands respectfully before it and silently remember Goddess Lakshmi. Afterward, light a lamp before the deity inside your home and pray for lasting peace and prosperity.
