On the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, alongside the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the worship of Lord Kuber also holds great importance. Kuber is revered as the god of wealth and the guardian of riches. He is considered one of the Lokapalas, the guardians of different directions in Hindu mythology, and is associated with wealth, prosperity, and opulence. Let’s delve into how Kuber became the god of wealth and why his worship on Dhanteras is so significant.
The Story of Kuber’s Origin and His Ascension as the God of Wealth
According to ancient scriptures, Kuber was born as the son of Sage Vishrava and was the half-brother of Ravana, the king of Lanka. His mother’s name was Ilavila. From a young age, Kuber had a pious nature and engaged in intense penance to please Lord Shiva. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the boon to become the lord of wealth and the guardian of the treasures of the world.
Another story suggests that Kuber, in a previous birth, was a thief. Once, he stole golden fruits and offered them to Lord Shiva. Pleased with his unusual yet devotional act, Lord Shiva blessed him with the next birth as the god of wealth. Thus, Kuber became the guardian of divine treasures, distributing wealth across the world.
Symbolism of Kuber’s Treasure
Kuber is regarded as the treasurer of the heavens and the keeper of immense wealth. He resides in the mythical city of Alakapuri, where he is served by an army of Yakshas and Gandharvas. His treasure is believed to be infinite and inexhaustible, from which he generously bestows wealth upon those who honor him. The “Nidhis,” or magical treasures associated with Kuber, are said to never diminish.
Importance of Kuber Puja on Dhanteras
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day Diwali festival, and it is considered highly auspicious for the worship of both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kuber. This day is dedicated to seeking wealth, health, and prosperity for the family. Worshipping Kuber on Dhanteras is believed to invite wealth and ensure its protection. Kuber not only grants wealth but also safeguards it, making his worship particularly important.
The Ritual of Kuber Puja on Dhanteras
Alongside Lakshmi Puja, Kuber is also worshipped on Dhanteras with much reverence. People buy gold, silver, utensils, and new items, as this is considered auspicious on this day. The Kuber Puja involves the following steps:
1. Cleanliness: Start by cleaning the house and ensuring the puja area is neat and tidy.
2. Placing Kuber’s Image: Place a statue or image of Kuber in the prayer area.
3. Puja Materials: Offer kumkum, rice, incense, lamps, fruits, sweets, and silver coins to Kuber.
4. Cleansing Wealth: After the puja, the place where money, jewelry, or valuables are kept is cleansed to invite prosperity.
5. Chanting Mantras: The following mantra is recited to invoke Kuber’s blessings:
“Om Yakshaaya Kuberaya Vaishravanaaya Dhanadhanayadhipataye Dhanadhanaya Samruddhim Me Dehi Daapaya Svaaha.”
Connection Between Kuber and Lakshmi
Kuber and Lakshmi are both symbols of wealth and prosperity. On Dhanteras, worshipping both ensures the flow and protection of wealth in the family. While Goddess Lakshmi bestows