Deepavali (also called Diwali) is an important festival celebrated by Hindus across the continent of India. The festival derives its name from the Sanskrit word “Dipavali,” meaning “a row of lights or lamps.” For this reason, Diwali is known as the “ Festival of Lights.” Diwali is celebrated on the new moon day in the month of Kartika, which usuallyoccurs in November. In some regions of India, people celebrate Diwali to commemorate Rama’s triumphant return to Ayodhya. In other regions, Kali Puja is celebrated on the same day as Diwali

        However, in all regions of India, Sri Maha Lakshmi (Goddess of Prosperity) is worshiped on this day. Many Hindus believe that Mahalakshmi is the Divine Mother that gives protection and mercy to her devotees. Her grace is critical for all endeavors. Three important attributes of Sri Maha Lakshmi are brought out in this festival: her association with wealth and prosperity; her association with fertility and abundant crops; and her association with good fortune in the coming year. During this festival, businessmen close their old account books and worship their new account books. Businessmen believe that wealth and prosperity cannot happen without Sri Lakshmi’s grace. In certain parts of India, during this festival, farmers begin to seed their fields and offer their prayers to Sri Maha Lakshmi in the hope of growing abundant crops. The most important significance of Deepavali festival for a majority of Hindus is the worship of Sri Maha Lakshmi for good fortune in the coming year. Lamps are lit to signify the presence of Sri Maha Lakshmi as “Jyoti,” and to remove darkness. Everyone prays to Sri Maha Lakshmi for her grace with the hope of a bright future. People wear new clothes and decorate their houses with colored lights. As stated in the Vedas: “abhutim asamridhimcha sarvan nirnuda megrihat” (We offer our prayers to Sri Maha Lakshmi to drive away poverty and miseries from the house and to bring prosperity and good fortune).During this time, Sri Maha Lakshmi is worshipped with festivals and vratas (religious vows undertaken). During these auspicious functions, eight forms of Sri Maha Lakshmi (Ashtalakshmi) are worshipped.

        The Sri Venkateswara Swami (Balaji) Temple celebrates Deepavali in a magnificent way. The festivities include an utsava (procession) for Sri Maha Lakshmi (utsava murti) adorned with splendid saris and glittering jewelry followed by various pujas. Women devotees perform puja to Sri Maha Lakshmi,according to directions from the priests. All the devotees join ourpriests and offer their prayers to Sri Maha Lakshmi by reciting the AshtaLakshmi Stotra (prayers for the eight forms of Sri Maha Lakshmi). Sweets are distributed and fireworks light up the night sky.