Lakshmi
Goddess of Wealth & Prosperity
Goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity. As Padmavati, she is Venkateswara's consort at Tirumala - central to Telugu devotion.
- Sanskrit/Telugu name: లక్ష్మి
- Also known as: Sri Devi, Padmavati, Alamelu Mangamma
- Vehicle (vahana): Uluka (గుడ్లగూబ)
- Symbols: Padmam, Gold coins, Four arms, Red sari
Story
Lakshmi Devi emerged from the Ksheera Sagara Manthanam, standing on a padmam, radiating beauty. She chose Vishnu as her Lord. Wherever Vishnu incarnates, she incarnates alongside - as Sita with Rama, as Rukmini with Krishna. For Telugu families, she is most beloved as Padmavati (Alamelu Mangamma), whose temple at Tiruchanur near Tirupati is visited by every pilgrim going to Tirumala. During Deepavali, Telugu families light diyas and draw muggu (rangoli) to welcome Lakshmi into their homes. Sravana Sukravaram (Fridays in Shravan month) is dedicated to her with special vratams.
Fun fact
Lakshmi's vehicle, the owl (uluka/గుడ్లగూబ), sees in the dark, symbolizing the ability to find wealth and opportunity where others see nothing. In Telugu homes, keeping the house clean on Fridays is believed to invite Lakshmi.