Mahalakshmi Fast Story

Once upon a time, there lived a merchant in a village with his wife and three children. The family lived harmoniously. The merchant was a wise man who followed daily rituals. Every morning, he would bathe, offer water to the Sun God, and worship Goddess Lakshmi with full devotion. On the other hand, his wife was lazy. She would wake up late, neglect cleaning the house, avoid bathing, and didn’t care for their children. The merchant often advised her to wake up early, clean the house, and bathe the children, explaining that cleanliness brings positivity and prosperity to the house. He warned her that neglecting cleanliness prevents wealth and blessings from entering their home, as Goddess Lakshmi never resides in untidy places. However, his wife remained unaffected by his words. One evening, while returning from the market, the merchant's wife met a beautiful woman, who was none other than Goddess Lakshmi in disguise. The woman asked, “Sister, can I use your lantern's light to guide my way in the dark? I am heading in the same direction.” The merchant’s wife agreed and, out of curiosity, asked about her identity. The woman replied, “I came from the city to visit my sister.” While walking together, the merchant’s wife invited her new friend to visit her house the next morning. The next day, Goddess Lakshmi visited the merchant’s home. Shocked at the messy state, she said, “Sister, don’t you clean your house? It is so dirty. Even your children are wearing dirty clothes.” The merchant's wife replied that she disliked cleaning. The goddess suggested she try cleaning once to see how it feels. Following her guidance, the merchant’s wife cleaned the house thoroughly, tidied up the kitchen, bathed her children, dressed them in clean clothes, and bathed herself. Impressed, the goddess started visiting their home every day, helping with the cleaning. Soon, when the merchant returned, he was delighted to see the clean and organized house. Gradually, their house became filled with wealth and prosperity. Seeing the family’s progress, the neighbors inquired about their secret. The merchant’s wife revealed that her “friend” helped her adopt cleanliness habits. The neighbors, curious about this helpful friend, asked to meet her. The next day, when Goddess Lakshmi came, the merchant’s wife refused to let her leave and shared how the neighbors were eager to meet her. Goddess Lakshmi said, “I don't stay in palaces of kings; how can I stay here?” But the merchant’s wife insisted and made her sit. Finally, Goddess Lakshmi revealed her divine form. Overwhelmed, the merchant’s wife bowed to her in gratitude. From that day onward, Goddess Lakshmi resided in their house, bringing prosperity and happiness to their lives.