History
The Desire for Immortality:
In ancient times, even celestial beings (Devas) experienced aging, decay, and mortality, just like humans. Distressed by this, the Devas, led by Indra, sought a solution. Indra approached Brahma, the creator, for guidance. However, Brahma admitted that even he had progressed to the second stage of life and could not offer a remedy. Instead, he advised them to seek the counsel of Maha Vishnu for a solution.
The Churning of the Ocean:
Upon approaching Maha Vishnu, he reassured the Devas and revealed that the nectar of immortality (Amrita) lay hidden in the depths of the Milky Ocean. He suggested that by churning the ocean, they could extract the nectar and gain eternal youth and immortality. However, Vishnu explained that the task was immense and beyond the capability of the Devas alone. Therefore, they would need the assistance of the Asuras (demons) to accomplish it. Using Mount Meru as the churning rod and Vasuki, the serpent, as the rope, the Devas and Asuras began the monumental task of churning the ocean.
The Emergence of Maha Lakshmi:
For a thousand years, the Devas and Asuras churned the ocean. During this process, Vasuki, the serpent acting as the rope, grew weary and released deadly poison (Halahala). The poison threatened to destroy all creation, but Lord Shiva selflessly consumed it and held it in his throat, earning the name Neelakanta (the blue-throated one).
As the churning continued, several divine treasures emerged from the ocean, including Chintamani, Sudarshana Chakra, Kamadhenu (the celestial cow), Kalpavriksha (the wish-fulfilling tree), Tulsi plant, and others.
Finally, Maha Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, emerged from the ocean, radiant and resplendent. She was adorned with divine beauty and grace. The Devas rejoiced as Maha Lakshmi chose Maha Vishnu as her consort, signifying the union of prosperity and preservation. Lord Vishnu accepted her and adorned her with great honor, becoming Maha Lakshmi Sametha Vishnu.
Vishnu also wore the Kaustubha gem, which had emerged from the ocean, on his chest, symbolizing the goddess's eternal presence with him.
The goddess of wealth, prosperity, and fortune, embodying grace and abundance.
The bestower of material wealth, financial prosperity, and generosity.
The goddess who grants success, victory, and triumph in endeavors.
Ashta Lakshmi
Maha Lakshmi is revered in eight distinct forms, known as Ashta Lakshmis, each representing different aspects of wealth and prosperity:
Birla Mandir in Delhi
Birla Mandir in Delhi was built by the entrepreneur B.R Birla and Vijay Tyagi in 1939. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Vishnu.
Mahalakshmi Temple
Mahalakshmi Temple, Mumbai is dedicated to goddess Lakshmi. It is one of the popular temples in Mumbai.
Lakshmi Devi Temple, Hassan
Lakshmi Devi Temple, Hassan - belongs to the period of Hoysalas in Karnataka. Lakshmi Devi Temple is one of the earliest temple architectures of Hoysala style. The temple is known for its ancient and intricate architecture
Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai
Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai - all the 8 forms of goddess Lakshmi is worshipped; there are shrines dedicated to each form of Lakshmi in the temple complex. The 8 forms of Goddess Lakshmi are installed in different sanctums at four levels. One special feature of this temple is that it is built in the shape of Om, the first Vedic mantra.
Mahalakshmi Temple
Mahalakshmi Temple, Kolhapur - This Shakti peetha is a famous pilgrim site for Hindus.. Kolhapur temple was built by Chalukyas of Karnataka and today it is one of the famous temples in India.
KAILA DEVI TEMPLE, KARAULI, RAJASTHAN
KAILA DEVI TEMPLE, KARAULI, RAJASTHAN - Kaila Devi is believed to be the form of Mahalakshmi or the Goddess of wealth. This temple situated Karauli District is a district of Rajasthan state in western India.
GORAVANAHALLI MAHALAKSHMI TEMPLE
GORAVANAHALLI MAHALAKSHMI TEMPLE is an extremely popular Mahalakshmi temple location in Tumkur District, Karnataka. The Idol of Mahalakshmi is believed to have originated on its own.
ASHTA LAKSHMI TEMPLE
ASHTA LAKSHMI TEMPLE, Outskirts Of Hyderabad. A magnificent temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi stands distinctly on the outskirts of the city of Hyderabad . The Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, finds a special place in the hearts of the people for she brings prosperity and happiness as well as salvation. Viewed from a distance, the temple looks like one made from marble.
Shri Mahalakshmi Temple
And, finally the latest one to the top 10 list – is at Harsha Homes complex, Pollachi. Shri Mahalakshmi Temple was built by the promoter at his own cost and a grand Ashtabandhana kumbabhishekam was held on 20th November 2024. This temple has been built as a protector and giver for the residents and this temple also houses other gods such as – Garudhazhwar, Anjaneyar, Kuberar and Dhanvanthri.
