The Story of Mahalakshmi

SANJAY BHATT

Sudasha Brata is a significant vow observed by women. According to the Padma Purana, it is a unique ritual performed when a Thursday coincides with the Shukla Dashami (10th day of the waxing moon). During this vow, women worship Goddess Mahalakshmi and wear a sacred thread (Brata Sutra) or bracelet on their right arm. This thread is tied with ten knots.

As per Balram Das's Lakshmi Purana, this vow is very dear to Goddess Lakshmi.

The procedure involves preparing the sacred thread from white cotton thread with ten hand-lengths of thread twisted threefold. Ten white rice cakes (Shukla Manda or boiled cakes) are made from cheese or white lentils and grated coconut, which are offered to the Goddess.

One unique aspect of this ritual is the tying of knots in the thread, each knot representing a name of Mahalakshmi. These names are mentioned in various scriptures but also find detailed reference in Balram Das's writings.

The ten names of Mahalakshmi associated with the knots are:

1. Lakshmi Naarayani

2. Kamalini

3. Shri Haripriyaa

4. Padmaalaya

5. Kamalaa

6. Chanchalaa

7. Vighnaseni

8. Sindhu Dulaani

9. Durgati Naashini

10. Vishnu Pattaraani

Women observe this vow with utmost devotion, as it is believed to be the Goddess's favorite. Balram Das beautifully describes how, upon hearing of the devotees' devotion, Mahalakshmi wishes to wander through the town to understand the essence of their prayers:

"Awaking in the dead of night, Mahalakshmi, with the blessings of Padmapada, sought permission from Lord Jagannath to wander the town and observe its people."

Lord Jagannath's response reflects the unity and harmony of Odia households:
"Govinda advised Lakshmi to go but to ensure she returned before her elder brother arrives."

With her husband's permission, Mahalakshmi sets out with joy. However, she does not leave in her ordinary attire. Her divine beauty is adorned with splendid ornaments, as described in Balram Das's Lakshmi Purana:

"Hearing these words, Kamalini entered the treasury and adorned herself with exquisite ornaments, preparing to grace the town."

The adornments include:

A diamond-studded nose ring

A four-stranded gemstone necklace

Blue sapphires and rubies

Strings of pearls and coral

An ornate golden waistband

Anklets that jingle with melodious tunes

Golden bangles and rings adorning her hands

Thus, adorned with divine beauty, Mahalakshmi leaves her abode, seated gracefully in a gem-studded palanquin, to roam the town and bless her devotees.

This sacred vow, with its deep rituals and meaningful symbolism, continues to reflect the rich traditions and devotional practices of Odisha.