Shri. Mahalaxmi Puja

In Chitpawan Brahmin families, on the day of Ashtami during Navratri, Mahalakshmi is worshipped. Earlier, this worship was done in every home, but nowadays, due to space constraints, Mahalakshmi is placed in public places, offices, halls, or temple courtyards, and all the women go to have her darshan. After marriage, the first five years involve worshipping Mahalakshmi and offering at least five rows of ghaagri.

In the morning, a Brahmin is called home to perform a five-step Puja. At that time, a 16-layer silk is taken and tied into knots. If it is the first year, one knot is tied; in the fifth year, five knots are made to prepare this thread. A stone is brought from a nearby water source. Along with that, grass with roots is collected, and after making a rangoli on a wooden board, these three items along with rice are placed on it. The Brahmin then performs the Panchamrit Puja, and this silk thread is tied in the hand.

In the evening, the worship of Mahalaxmi (the mask) is done, and the tattoo in the hand is placed at Mahalaxmi's feet, and then five ghagaris are blown, which completes the worship. The mask of Mahalaxmi is supposed to be made by men. While making this mask, no woman is allowed to see it.  

After taking a bath and wearing a clean attire, rice is pounded and this flour is boiled. Using the boiled flour, the mask is prepared, and with cloth and jewelry, the deity is dressed and adorned, and the mask is placed on her. Then, the Shodashopachari puja is performed, during which the ghagaris are blown. At this time, the person in whom the goddess manifests is asked various questions. This event continues until late at night (usually around midnight).  

Courtesy - Kuldevat: Ajit Patwardhan