The rice symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. It is believed that the goddess Lakshmi lives in the lower tip of a betel leaf. Betel leaves and nuts are also considered foods of the gods. [2] X Research source
Mango leaves are thought to be the god’s seat, as well as prevent negative energy. [4] X Research source The 5 leaves also represent the 5 senses (smell, touch, taste, sound, and sight). You can buy mango leaves in bulk online.
Coconut is considered the purest fruit in Hindu cultures and is also the fruit of Lakshmi. [5] X Research source The tail of the coconut should be up. [6] X Research source People believe that the coconut is what attracts Lakshmi to someone’s home and is the vessel for how she enters the kalash.
You can also smear the turmeric paste all over the kalasam. If you don’t want to draw the face, you can attach an image of Lakshmi to the coconut using a thread. You can even use a piece of silver or a coin with Lakshmi’s image pressed into it. [8] X Research source
For example, if your kalasam is 4 inches (10 cm) wide, use a stick that’s about 10 inches (25 cm) long. [9] X Research source
Choose a red or green silk saree. Since Lakshmi represents married women, she should wear a saree in red or green hues which are the most common wedding colors. [11] X Research source While any fabric can be used, a soft silk is the easiest to drape.
The trick to pinning pleats is to place the safety pin vertically in line with the pleats, instead of horizontally across them. This prevents the pleats from shifting.
Be careful to keep the saree taut as you fold so that the pleats don’t fall out. Pull the thread as tightly as possible when you’re tying it so it doesn’t slide down the saree. A double knot will help prevent the thread from coming undone later on.
The longer end of the folded saree should be on the bottom.
You can pin the saree pleats behind the kalash, hidden from sight. This will help keep the kalash covered and the pleats in place.
You can pin the pleats in the pallu if you’re having trouble holding them together. Make sure the sticks are completely hidden underneath the pallu. One variation is to pull the pallu across the front of the kalasam and pin it on the left side.
It symbolizes the union between a man and wife, just like that of Lakshmi and her husband, Vishnu. [18] X Research source
Women who are decked out in blinged-out bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are viewed as wealthier and more prosperous. Gold in particular is a sign of status in India and often given as gifts at weddings. [19] X Research source
Choose flowers with pretty scents like jasmine, roses, or lilies. Lakshmi herself is often portrayed on a lotus throne so a strand of lotuses is an appropriate accessory.
