Lakshmi
लक्ष्मी • Lakṣmī
"Goal, Aim; She who leads to the goal; from 'laksh' (to perceive/observe)"
Category & Classification
Iconography
Attributes & Weapons
- Lotus (Padma) (Two hands) - Purity rising from mud; spiritual liberation; beauty
- Gold coins (One hand pouring) - Material wealth flowing to devotees
- Abhaya/Varada mudra (One hand) - Blessing and protection
Mudras
- Abhaya mudra
- Varada mudra
Ornaments
Family & Relations
| Origin | Emerged from Samudra Manthan (Ocean Churning) standing on a lotus; eternal consort of Vishnu |
| Consort | Vishnu (accompanies him in all avatars) |
| Children | Kama (god of love); symbolic mother of all prosperity |
| Abode | Vaikuntha with Vishnu; Kshira Sagara; wherever Vishnu resides |
Mythology & Stories
Emerged from Samudra Manthan (Ocean Churning) standing on a lotus; eternal consort of Vishnu
Samudra Manthan
Lakshmi emerged from the cosmic ocean during its churning, radiant and beautiful. She chose Vishnu as her eternal consort, rejecting all others.
Source: Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana
Lakshmi's Vow
Lakshmi vowed to always accompany Vishnu in his incarnations - as Sita with Rama, as Rukmini/Radha with Krishna, etc.
Source: Puranic tradition
Lakshmi's Restlessness
Lakshmi is described as 'Chanchala' (restless), never staying in one place - wealth comes and goes. Only through dharma and devotion is she retained.
Source: Vishnu Purana
Bhrigu's Kick
When sage Bhrigu kicked Vishnu's chest (where Lakshmi resides), Lakshmi was angered and left, causing great distress until she was appeased.
Source: Bhagavata Purana
Worship & Mantras
Mantras
Om Shreem
Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah
Om Mahalakshmyai Cha Vidmahe Vishnu Patnyai Cha Dhimahi Tanno Lakshmi Prachodayat
Stotras & Hymns
Offerings
- Lotus flowers
- Rice
- Coins
- Sweets
- Red flowers
- Turmeric
Temples
Mahalakshmi Temple
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
One of major Shakti Peethas; Mahalakshmi's primary seat
Padmavathi Temple
Tiruchanur, Andhra Pradesh
Consort temple of Tirupati Venkateswara
Ashtalakshmi Temple
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Dedicated to eight forms of Lakshmi
Associated Festivals
Astrological Connection
Symbolism & Philosophy
Cosmic Role: Bestower of wealth, fortune, beauty, and prosperity in all forms
Represents the divine feminine as the power that sustains and enriches; Vishnu's Shakti; the grace that rewards dharmic living
