Lalita Panchami

Lalita Panchami is celebrated on the fifth day of the Sharad Navaratri festival, which falls on the Panchami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin. This is considered an extremely auspicious day, with special significance given to the worship and fasting in honour of Goddess Lalita. The day is also known as Upang Lalita Vrat. This festival is particularly celebrated with great enthusiasm in Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Worship Method

On the day of Lalita Panchami Vrat, wake up early, bathe, and wear clean clothes before taking the vow of fasting. Clean and decorate the worship area, then install the idol or image of Goddess Lalita. Adorn the deity with flowers, Akshat (rice), Kumkum, and sandalwood. Afterward, light incense and a lamp, and perform the aarti of the Goddess. Recite the Lalita Sahastranam and pray for the blessings of Goddess Lalita during the puja. Offer fruits, sweets, and Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar) as bhog. Finally, distribute the prasad, provide food to the needy, and offer charity according to your ability.

Story

According to a legend, it is said that Bhandasura, the king of the demons, wreaked havoc across the entire world. He defeated many deities and seized their thrones. Bhandasura spread fear and chaos throughout the universe with his power. Troubled by the atrocities of the demons, the deities sought help from Lord Shiva.

Hearing their prayers, Lord Shiva requested Goddess Parvati to slay Bhandasura. In response, Goddess Parvati incarnated as Goddess Lalita to destroy the demon. With her unparalleled power, Goddess Lalita vanquished Bhandasura and his army.

It is believed that after slaying the demon, Goddess Lalita blessed her devotees and granted them peace, happiness, and prosperity. Since then, this day has been celebrated as Lalita Panchami.

Significance of Lalita Panchami

Goddess Lalita is considered the deity of beauty, wisdom, and power. By worshiping and observing the fast on this day, devotees attain happiness, prosperity, and peace in life. Lalita Panchami is an integral part of Indian culture and traditions, symbolizing the power and glory of women. Through this, the importance of feminine strength in society is emphasized, and devotees seek the refuge of Goddess Lalita to overcome their difficulties.