Decoding Diwali rituals’ spiritual significance, from buying gold to decluttering the house

“If I had to explain it in one sentence, Goddess Lakshmi is the divine energy that represents luxury and Diwali is a celebration of luxury in the Hindu calendar,” says Aggarwal. Dhanteras [which falls on October 29 this year] marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations and is traditionally considered an auspicious day to buy jewellery. Aggarwal emphasises that buying gold or silver on this day is believed to bring Mahalakshmi’s blessings into one’s home. “Jewellery is seen as a vessel for her prosperous energy,” she says. “When we buy jewellery during Dhanteras, we are not just making a purchase; we are inviting divine energy into our homes.” This belief transforms the act of buying into a spiritual practice that resonates deeply with the festival’s theme.

Aggarwal elaborates on the significance of gold in Indian culture: “Gold is not just a metal; it represents prosperity and abundance. In various scenes from Hindu mythology, Goddess Lakshmi is depicted as holding a vessel overflowing with golden coins.”

But she acknowledges the socio-economic diversity of her audience: “I understand that not everyone can afford gold or silver. But remember, it’s the intention behind the purchase that matters most. Even if you can only buy a small steel utensil or a silver coin, you are still inviting abundance into your life.”

She encourages people to embrace these rituals with joy rather than obligation: “Buying jewellery should be seen as an investment in your spiritual journey. It’s about celebrating life and inviting positivity into your home.” This perspective invites luxury consumers to approach their purchases with mindfulness and appreciation for their deeper significance.

The rituals performed during Diwali are rich in symbolism and intent. Families typically clean their homes to welcome prosperity and light, set up altars for worshipping deities like Lakshmi and Ganesha, and light diya (lamps) to dispel darkness. Aggarwal emphasises that the intention behind these rituals is crucial: “What you bring into your home reflects your energy,” she notes. Each act serves to align one’s spirit with the festive energy of Diwali.

“Cleaning your home isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about creating space for positivity,” she adds. 

During Diwali, you can enhance your celebrations by incorporating several meaningful rituals that invite prosperity and positivity into your home. Start with Dhanteras on October 29, when it’s customary to purchase gold, silver or even symbolic items like mustard seeds if you’re on a budget. As Aggarwal says, “It’s not like if you cannot get gold or silver, Ma Lakshmi is not going to come into your home, do as much as you can and have good intentions.” 

Clean and decorate your space to welcome the goddess, using rangoli (colourful floor art) designs at your entrance to attract good fortune. Lighting diyas on Choti Diwali on October 30 and the main night signifies the victory of light over darkness, a key aspect of the festival, which falls on October 31. On this day, perform a puja for Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Dhanvantari, placing any new jewellery or cash on your altar for blessings. Additionally, placing raw rice in four corners of your home invites prosperity; Aggarwal says that “rice has a huge significance because Ma Lakshmi resides in it. Collect the rice the next day, wrap it in red cloth and keep it in your jewellery box for added blessings throughout the year.”

Set clear intentions as you engage in these rituals—your mindset plays a crucial role in attracting abundance. If you acquire new jewellery, purify it by dipping it in raw milk or holy water and place it at the Diwali altar. For those interested in crystals, consider using pyrite or green jade, which are associated with wealth and can amplify your intentions when placed on your altar during the puja. Lastly, “express gratitude for your blessings and maintain a beautiful, decluttered environment at home throughout the year to keep the energy flowing positively”. 

Crystals play an essential role in enhancing spiritual practices during Diwali. Aggarwal recommends incorporating money crystals such as pyrite and green jade into one’s jewellery collection. “These crystals are readily available and can amplify intentions related to wealth and abundance,” she explains. By wearing or placing these stones around the home, individuals can attract positive energies aligned with their desires for prosperity.

“Crystals like pyrite are known as ‘fool’s gold’ but carry powerful energies that can help manifest financial goals,” she notes, emphasising their importance during this festive season.

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In addition to materials, Aggarwal highlights the significance of shapes in jewellery design when it comes to attracting positive energy during Diwali. The expert advises investing in pieces that embody specific forms associated with abundance and protection. “Shapes like circles represent infinity and wholeness,” she explains. “Wearing circular designs can help create a continuous flow of positive energy in your life.” This notion of continuity is essential, especially during the festival, as it aligns with the idea of inviting ongoing prosperity into one’s home.

She explains that inverted triangles, which symbolise shakti or divine feminine energy, are powerful representations of empowerment. “The reverse triangle is a shakti symbol, and when worn as a pendant, touching the skin, it is believed to activate our energy and heart chakra,” she says.

Conversely, she notes that regular triangles symbolise Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism, representing stability and strength. “Investing in jewellery that incorporates these shapes can enhance your intentions during this auspicious time,” Aggarwal adds. 

For those who may not have the means to purchase gold or silver during Diwali, Aggarwal assures that there are alternative rituals that can still invite abundance. “You can use mustard seeds, coriander leaves or even a broom as symbols of wealth,” she suggests. The yellow colour of mustard seeds represents prosperity and aligns with Mahalakshmi’s energy.

She explains that these items carry their unique energetic significance and can be incorporated into rituals without financial strain. In Aggarwal’s words: “As we embrace this festive season, let us remember that intention is key, every piece of jewellery worn or ritual performed carries the potential to transform our lives and invite abundance into our homes.” 

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