Diwali

Question:

I would like to know what pujas are done prior week to Diwali and on the main day. 

Swamiji Says:

We perform the entire Cosmic Puja every day, just to make sure, but traditionally people worship Lakshmi – Ganesh, Gauri – Mahesh, and on the Bengal side they also worship Saraswati and Kartik.

Question:

Why do people light a diya (lamp) outside for Yam Dev prior evening before Diwali?

Swamiji Says:

Diwali is preceeded by Kali Puja. Kali takes away the Darkness, while Diwali celebrates the Light. So the light is offered to Yama, who is the ultimate power of control.

Question:

There is a Lakshmi-Kubera Puja that is traditionally practised during Diwali. Could Shree Maa and Swamiji give us some hints on how to attune to Kubera and Lakshmi during this upcoming festival?

Swamiji Says:

While Lakshmi is the true wealth and the definition f our goals, Kubera is the accountant and measures our progress. Lakshmi’s bija is Srim: the ultimate peace in our minds and our hearts. Kubera’s bija is Sam, which is the perfect equilibrium in creation. May they both bless us all during the Holiday Season.