Chopda Puja

On the day of Diwali, which falls on the Amavasya (new moon) of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Kartik, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped. For traders, it is customary to purchase a new ledger on Diwali and worship it along with Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Sharda. On this day, they also begin recording their financial transactions in the new ledger. Writing the auspicious words "Shubh Labh" (auspicious gains) in the ledger holds special significance on this day. A special ritual is performed, which is known by different names in different regions. In Gujarat, it is called "Chopda Pujan," while in North India, it is referred to as "Bahi Khata," "Sharda Puja," "Mahalakshmi Pujan," or "Muhurat Pujan."

What is Chopda Puja?

Most traders close their shops on the occasion of Diwali and then invite their employees for a ritual at an auspicious time. On this day, along with the worship of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, a ritual is performed to worship the new ledgers used in the business. Earlier, only books were included in the ritual, but in today's times, papers printed from computers, as well as the computers or laptops used to maintain business accounts, are also included. This type of ritual performed on Diwali is known as "Chopda Puja."

It is believed that by dedicating the ledger books to Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Sharda, and worshiping them, all types of problems related to business transactions are eliminated. With the blessings of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Sharda, success is ensured in the future.

Puja Method

On the day of Amavasya (new moon) during the Krishna Paksha of the Kartik month, the tradition is to perform the worship ritual in the evening. While many traders perform this puja at their shops or business locations, smaller traders can also do it at home. First, clean the place of worship thoroughly. Then, spread a white or red cloth on a clean platform. Place idols or pictures of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Sharda on the platform. Keep your old ledger books and the new ledger there as well. Offer incense, lamps, ghee, sweets, and other offerings in their worship, adorn them with garlands, and offer bhog. If possible, chant Vedic mantras and then perform the aarti. Afterward, pray to them for prosperity in your business.

Importance of Chopda Puja

In Gujarat, a special ritual known as "Chopda Puja" is performed on the day of Diwali. During Chopda Puja, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Sharda are worshipped. All business-related items are also worshipped to ensure growth in business and success in the professional field. Lord Ganesha grants wisdom, Goddess Lakshmi provides wealth, and Goddess Sharda is the goddess of knowledge and education. Therefore, to achieve success in business, one needs good intellect, wealth, and knowledge. Chopda Puja is performed on Diwali to ensure business success in life. The upcoming year becomes fruitful, and peace and prosperity are attained.