Maharashtra’s Dussehra and Diwali: From Shami Tree Worship to Laxmi Pujan Traditions

In the heart of Maharashtra, two of India’s most vibrant festivals Dussehra and Diwali are celebrated with deep-rooted traditions, sacred rituals, and heartfelt devotion. What sets Maharashtra apart is its spiritual blend of ancient practices like the worship of the Shami tree, exchanging Apta leaves, and performing the revered Laxmi tradition during Diwali. These customs not only uphold heritage but also connect families across generations.

Whether you’re observing the spiritual power of Dussehra or the wealth-inviting rituals of Diwali, understanding the cultural richness of Maharashtra gives new meaning to each celebration. And today, gifting traditional symbols like the Lakshmi Ganesha Pure Silver Coin (99.25% Hallmarked) has become a beautiful part of the Laxmi tradition during Diwali.

Dussehra in Maharashtra: Apta Leaves, Shami Tree & Victory Rituals

The Power of the Shami Tree and Apta Leaves

In Maharashtra, Dussehra is more than just the victory of good over evil it's a celebration of nature and community. A unique ritual in Maharashtra involves the Shami tree, believed to be sacred since the times of the Mahabharata. On this day, families in Maharashtra exchange Apta leaves, symbolizing gold, prosperity, and goodwill.

As part of the Laxmi tradition, Maharashtrians honor the Shami tree on Dussehra as a source of blessings and victory. This practice is especially prominent in towns and villages where the tree is worshipped with turmeric, vermilion, and garlands.

Simollanghan: Crossing Borders and Spiritual Boundaries

Another important aspect of Dussehra in Maharashtra is Simollanghan, a ritual where people cross village borders and visit temples beyond their locality. It signifies the removal of limitations, much like the symbolic destruction of ego and evil that Dussehra represents.

This blend of nature worship, community rituals, and spiritual significance reflects the soul of Maharashtra. These values later echo again during Diwali, especially within the Laxmi tradition that emphasizes inviting wealth and wisdom into one’s life.

Diwali in Maharashtra: Embracing the Laxmi Tradition

The Five-Day Festival Begins

Diwali in Maharashtra spans five days, beginning with Vasu Baras and culminating in Bhaubeej. Each day has significance, but the centerpiece of Diwali remains the Laxmi tradition the ritual worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on Diwali Amavasya.

Preparations start early. Homes in Maharashtra are cleaned, decorated with rangoli, and adorned with akash kandils and diyas, aligning with the Laxmi tradition to welcome the goddess of wealth. New clothes are worn, and families prepare traditional sweets like anarse, chakli, and karanji.

Laxmi Pujan: Welcoming Prosperity the Maharashtrian Way

On Diwali, the Laxmi Pujan ceremony is a major highlight across Maharashtra. Families perform this ritual by decorating the house temple or puja corner with flowers, incense, and silver coins. A sacred red cloth is laid out, and items like turmeric, vermillion, grains, betel leaves, and money are arranged for the puja.

Adding a touch of divinity and devotion, many now use silver tokens like the Lakshmi Ganesha Pure Silver Coin (99.25% Hallmarked) as part of their Laxmi tradition. These coins symbolize blessings, wealth, and spiritual purity—making them ideal for both altar placement and gifting.

Modern Devotion: Silver Coins and the Spirit of Gifting

Spiritual Value Meets Cultural Elegance

As Maharashtra modernizes, so do its festive expressions. During Diwali, it is now common to present loved ones with auspicious items like the Lakshmi Ganesha Silver Coin as part of the Laxmi tradition. These coins are not only decorative but also hold spiritual value, being used in Laxmi Pujan rituals.

Crafted in pure silver (99.25% hallmarked), these coins bring together age-old traditions and modern devotional aesthetics. For those celebrating Diwali in Maharashtra, such gifts are a meaningful way to share prosperity.

Why Silver Coins Matter in the Laxmi Tradition

• Purity: Silver is associated with the moon and purity in Hindu tradition.
• Longevity: Unlike sweets or perishables, silver coins last forever.
• Symbolism: Coins with Laxmi and Ganesha represent both wealth and wisdom.
• Gifting Value: Perfect for family members, business partners, and friends during Diwali.

This practice connects directly to the Laxmi tradition in Maharashtra, blending sacred symbolism with modern presentation.

FAQs on Maharashtra's Dussehra, Diwali & Laxmi Tradition

1. What is the meaning of Apta leaf exchange during Dussehra in Maharashtra?

The Apta (Shami) leaf symbolizes gold. Maharashtrians exchange it on Dussehra to wish prosperity and good luck, rooted in the Mahabharata story of the Pandavas.

2. What is Simollanghan, and why is it performed in Maharashtra?

Simollanghan is a tradition of crossing village borders on Dussehra, signifying overcoming limits. It reflects spiritual progress and forms a key ritual in Maharashtra.

3. What is the significance of silver coins in the Laxmi tradition during Diwali?

Silver coins, especially those with Laxmi and Ganesha, are sacred items used in Laxmi Pujan. Many families now include this silver coin in their puja and gifting traditions.

4. When is Laxmi Pujan performed during Diwali in Maharashtra?

Laxmi Pujan is done on the evening of Diwali Amavasya, usually after sunset. Families in Maharashtra prepare altars with diyas, sweets, and sacred items like silver coins.

5. Why is Diwali in Maharashtra unique compared to other states?

Maharashtra blends traditional rituals like Laxmi Pujan, eco-friendly akash kandils, local sweets, and modern gifting customs rooted in the Laxmi tradition, making the celebration both cultural and spiritual.

From the sacred exchange of Apta leaves on Dussehra to the divine rituals of Laxmi Pujan during Diwali, the festivals in Maharashtra embody a perfect blend of spirituality, tradition, and cultural unity. Each custom, whether worshipping the Shami tree, performing Simollanghan, or honoring the Laxmi tradition, reflects the timeless values that define the region’s festive spirit. As generations in Maharashtra continue to uphold these practices, the essence of Dussehra and Diwali remains as vibrant and meaningful as ever, carrying forward a legacy of devotion, prosperity, and shared celebration.

Bring home prosperity and blessings with the Lakshmi Ganesha Pure Silver Coin—perfect for puja or gifting!

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