Author: Devdutt Pattanaik
Publisher: Vakils, Freffer & Simons
Year: 2009
Language: English
Pages: 110
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8187111585
Description
Lakshmi, the goddess of material abundance, affluence, authority and auspiciousness, is the most popular goddess of the Hindu pantheon. An understanding of her helps one appreciate the Hindu attitude towards wealth and power. This book brings together:
Stories of the goddess compiled from Vedas, Puranas, Tantras and folk narratives
Over 200 images from different parts of India, from different times, each in a different style
Symbols associated with fertility that are an integral part of Lakshmi worship
Explanation of her attributes and her enigmatic association with demons and the nether regions
Description of rituals, temples, and festivals dedicated to here
Philosophical and metaphysical thoughts that make her worship significant even in modern times
108 names of the goddess that hold the promise of material fulfillment
Text and simple translation of Kanakadhara (inflowing gold) Stotra of Adi Shankaracharya
MAHA -LAKSHMI
Salutation to the goddess of wealth, food, property, children, health, happiness, power, beauty, luck and sacredness, who sits bejewelled on a dew-drenched lotus, holding in her hand a golden pot overflowing with grain and gold, who is entertained by the songs of elephants in rut, who is the strength of the cosmic-king Vishnu, the mother of the god of love, whose eyes hold the promise of contentment and fulfillment, who is restless but generous to all those who adore here, who is the earth-cow offering love and nourishment to all.
Contents
Acknowledgements
About this Book
The Lakshmi Heritage
Ascent of Lakshmi
Rescue of the Earth-goddess
Manifestations of Lakshmi
Lakshmi's Sister
Companions of Lakshmi
Attributes of Lakshmi
Worship of Lakshmi
Festivals of Lakshm