Labh Pancham 2024: Significance, Shubh Muhurat, and Celebration Details
Labh Pancham Date: November 6, 2024
Shubh Muhurat for Puja:
Morning Muhurat: 7:45 AM to 9:15 AM
Afternoon Muhurat: 12:25 PM to 2:00 PM
Evening Muhurat: 5:20 PM to 6:45 PM
Why Do We Celebrate Labh Pancham?
Labh Pancham marks the fifth day of the Kartik month in the Hindu calendar and is celebrated primarily in Gujarat and other western states. It is the last day of Diwali celebrations, also known as Saubhagya Panchami. ‘Labh’ means gain or benefit, and ‘Pancham’ refers to the fifth day. The festival is significant for starting new ventures, reopening businesses after Diwali, and seeking prosperity and success for the upcoming year.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Labh Pancham is associated with renewing financial activities after Diwali. On this day, traders and businessmen worship Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking their blessings for profitable ventures. Many people begin their accounting books or ‘Chopda’ on this day, symbolizing the auspicious restart of business activities. It is believed that the blessings received on this day lead to abundance and success.
Rituals and Puja Vidhi
Puja Preparations:
Clean the home or business space, especially the area where the puja will take place. Set up idols or pictures of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi.
Offering Flowers and Sweets:
Fresh flowers, sweets like laddoo and peda, incense sticks, and a diya (lamp) are essential for the ritual.
Chopda Pujan:
Business people perform a special puja of their accounting books, also known as ‘Chopda Pujan,’ to begin the new fiscal year on a positive note.
Reciting Mantras:
Chanting prayers and mantras dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi is integral for invoking their blessings.
Distribution of Prasad:
After the puja, prasad is distributed to family members, employees, and guests.
How to Celebrate Labh Pancham
Family Gatherings:
People celebrate with close relatives and friends, sharing sweets and offering prayers.
Business Restart:
Entrepreneurs and traders resume work, starting the new business year on an auspicious note.
Charity and Generosity:
It is customary to donate food, clothes, or money to the needy, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good karma.
Labh Pancham is a day of new beginnings, wealth, and prosperity, making it an ideal time to start or resume business activities. With prayers to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, people seek their blessings for a successful and profitable year ahead. Make sure to perform the puja during the Shubh Muhurat for maximum benefits.
