Brass Astha Dhatu Laxmi Ganesh

Ahead of diwali, homes are cleaned to a sparkle. The idols of ganesha and lakshmi are given a ritual bath, first in water, then rosewater and again with water. Then the idols are decorated. They appear radiant with sandal paste and kumkum on their foreheads and bright flower garlands around their necks, ready to be worshiped. Lakshmi sits on the left, surrounded by lotus blooms and next to her is ganesha. Milk, yogurt, butter, sugar and honey, symbolizing nourishment and well-being are placed before them, along with offerings of sweetmeats, savories, fruits, betel leaves and currency notes. Lakshmi also gets a silver coin. Families often observe the tradition of sitting together before the gods while one member reads out the diwali story. As dusk deepens, the lamps are lit and prayers are offered, first to ganesha and then lakshmi.