The name Friday is derived from the planet Venus (Shukra), which symbolizes happiness, prosperity, love, and creativity. In Vedic astrology, Venus is considered the planet that governs material comforts, beauty, arts, and marital harmony in life.
On this day, devotees especially worship Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Dressed in white or pink attire, they light lamps in her temples, as Friday is believed to bring wealth and happiness to households when observed with fasting and prayers.
Additionally, the aarti and worship of Lord Lakshman are also considered highly auspicious on this day. Lord Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Ram and an incarnation of Sheshnag, symbolizes discipline, service, and sacrifice. Performing his aarti not only brings material blessings but also spiritual peace and liberation.
Shukrawar Aarti
Aarti Lakshman Baljati Ki, Asur Sanharan Pranpati Ki.
The aarti praises Lord Lakshman, who, even in his youth, exemplified bravery and vanquished demons to uphold righteousness.
Jagat Jyoti Avadhpur Raje, Sheshachal Pai Aap Viraje.
Lord Lakshman, a member of the royal family of Ayodhya, is a symbol of divine light and energy, and he himself is an incarnation of Sheshnag.
Ghanta Taal Pakhavaj Baje, Koti Dev Muni Aarti Saje.
With the melodious sounds of bells, cymbals, and drums, countless gods and sages perform his aarti.
Kreet Mukut Kar Dhanush Viraje, Teen Lok Jaki Shobha Raje.
Adorned with a crown on his head and a bow in his hand, Lord Lakshman’s glory resonates across the three worlds.
Kanchan Thar Kapoor Suhai, Aarti Karat Sumitra Mai.
Lighting camphor in a golden tray, Mother Sumitra performs the aarti of her son.
Aarti Keejai Hari Ki Taisi, Dhruv Prahlad Vibhishan Jaisi.
Lord Lakshman’s aarti should be performed with the same devotion and love as that of Dhruv, Prahlad, and Vibhishan.
Prem Magan Hoy Aarti Gawain, Basi Baikunth Bahuri Nahin Awain.
Those who sing the aarti with devotion reside in Vaikunth and are freed from the cycle of birth and death.
Bhakti Hetu Laad Ladavai, Jan Ghanshyam Param Pad Pavai.
Pleased by their devotion, the Lord showers love on his devotees and grants them liberation.
Benefits of Friday Aarti
Performing Lakshman Aarti regularly offers spiritual, mental, and physical benefits:
1. Spiritual Benefits
- Liberation: The verses of the aarti glorify the Lord and invoke devotion, leading the soul toward liberation.
- Divine Abode: Devotees who sing this aarti with love attain Vaikunth (the divine abode).
- Enhanced Devotion: This aarti fosters a deep sense of devotion and reverence within the devotee.
2. Mental Benefits
- Peace and Contentment: Singing or listening to the aarti calms the mind and brings inner satisfaction.
- Positivity: Chanting Lord Lakshman’s praises dispels mental chaos and infuses life with positive energy.
- Courage and Patience: Drawing inspiration from Lord Lakshman’s life encourages courage and patience during challenging times.
3. Awakening Spiritual Energy
- Positive Energy: Performing the aarti on Fridays fills the home with positive energy.
- Vastu Remedies: Chanting the aarti mitigates the effects of negative energies and Vastu doshas.
4. Religious Benefits
- Piety: Performing and listening to the aarti is considered a highly virtuous act.
- Cultural Preservation: Aarti helps pass on religious and cultural values to the younger generation.
Impact of Aarti
Aarti is not just a hymn of praise but also a meditative practice. Regular performance leads to:
- Heightened Awareness: Each word of the aarti reflects the devotee’s surrender, awakening inner consciousness.
- Propagation of Dharma: Collective aarti promotes religious thoughts and values in society.
- Contentment: Those who perform the aarti with devotion lead a satisfied and joyous life.
Friday Aarti, dedicated to Lord Lakshman, is a powerful way to sing his glory. It provides spiritual, mental, and material benefits. Performing it regularly purifies the soul, ensures success, and paves the path to liberation. Aarti should always be sung with love, devotion, and reverence to experience its divine blessings.