Diwali Katha — Lakshmi Puja and the Return of Rama

On the Amavasya of the Kartik month, two of the most auspicious events in sacred history coincided: the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, and the emergence of Goddess Lakshmi from the churning of the cosmic ocean, Samudra Manthan.

When Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita on Vijaya Dashami — Dussehra — He began the journey home. But the route back to Ayodhya was long, and His arrival was on the darkest night of the month — the new moon of Kartik.

The people of Ayodhya, who had waited fourteen long years for their beloved prince, were not going to let darkness stop their celebration. Every household lit diyas — earthen lamps — in rows along pathways, on rooftops, on windowsills, on rivers. The entire city blazed with light, transforming the dark Amavasya into a night brighter than the full moon.

Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana descended from the Pushpaka Vimana and were overwhelmed by the sight of Ayodhya ablaze with love. The people received their king with flowers, incense, and the singing of his praises. This is why Diwali lamps are lit — to re-enact that homecoming every year.

On this same Amavasya, Goddess Lakshmi — who was born from the Samudra Manthan and chose Lord Vishnu as Her consort — is believed to roam the earth in the night. She pauses at each home and enters only where there is cleanliness, light, order, and heartfelt devotion.

Families clean their homes, draw rangoli at the doorstep, light diyas, and perform Lakshmi Puja at midnight. Offerings of sweets, incense, and flowers are made. Business account books are blessed. The Goddess bestows Her grace of prosperity, wealth, and abundance for the year ahead.