Labh Panchami, also known as Laakheni Panchami and Saubhaagya Panchami, is a meaningful Hindu festival celebrated with devotion, gratitude, and a spirit of giving. Observed on the fifth day after Diwali, this auspicious day symbolizes blessings of prosperity, growth, new beginnings, and the importance of donation. Its meaning “benefit” or “gain,” inspires positivity, faith, and community support, encouraging individuals to make a difference through acts of kindness and generosity.
Labh Panchami 2024 Date and Muhurat
In 2024, it falls on Wednesday, November 6. The Pratah Kala Muhurat for Puja is from 6:45 AM to 10:27 AM. This time is considered ideal for prayers and rituals, inviting prosperity and divine blessings for new ventures. Business owners and traders traditionally open new account books on this day to mark a prosperous start to the financial year.
Rituals During Labh Panchami
It is celebrated with specific rituals to honor prosperity and new beginnings:
- Ghatasthapana Puja: Many devotees perform a traditional Ghatasthapana (installation of a sacred pot) and invoke Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi. This ritual symbolizes the welcome of wealth, success, and good fortune.
- Opening of New Account Books: For traders, it is an ideal day to close old accounts and open new ledgers for the coming financial year. It signifies a fresh start and invokes blessings for financial stability and growth.
- Lakshmi Puja and Ganesha Puja: Devotees perform pujas dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha, praying for wisdom, prosperity, and peace. Flowers, sweets, and incense are offered as part of the rituals.
- Decoration and Illumination: Homes and workplaces are thoroughly cleaned, decorated, and sometimes illuminated with lights and rangolis. This symbolizes the removal of negativity and the welcoming of good fortune.
- Distribution of Sweets: Sharing sweets with family, friends, and neighbors is a common practice on Labh Panchmi. It is a gesture of goodwill and the sharing of blessings.
The Spiritual Significance of Labh Panchami
It is the concluding day of Diwali festivities and holds deep spiritual importance. In regions like Gujarat, it is especially celebrated by the business community, who honor it as a time to reflect on gratitude, seek divine guidance, and foster a positive outlook for the future.
The Importance of Donation on Labh Panchami
Donation is a cherished part of this auspicious day, as it is believed that helping those in need invites blessings and prosperity. Supporting organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which aids differently-abled and underprivileged individuals, aligns with the spirit of this day. By contributing to such causes, one extends the blessings of this occasion to others in meaningful ways.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Labh Panchmi?
A: A festival on the fifth day after Diwali that symbolizes blessings of prosperity.
Q: Why is it significant for business owners?
A: Ideal day to open new account books, inviting financial blessings.
Q: When is Labh Panchmi in 2024, and the Puja Muhurat?
A: November 6, with the Muhurat from 6:45 AM to 10:27 AM.
Q: What rituals are performed?
A: Ghatasthapana Puja, Lakshmi-Ganesha Puja, opening new ledgers, and sharing sweets.
Q: Why is donation important on this day?
A: It brings prosperity and goodwill, supporting those in need.
