Sri Suktam श्रीसूक्तम्
The Sri Suktam is the most celebrated Vedic hymn dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi — the embodiment of beauty, prosperity, grace, and auspiciousness. Appended to the Rig Veda as a Khila Sukta, it is chanted in temples, homes, and sacred ceremonies to invoke the blessings of the Divine Mother Sri.
Overview परिचयः
About the Suktam
The Sri Suktam (श्रीसूक्तम्) is one of the most revered hymns in Vedic literature, found as a Khila (appendix) to the Rig Veda. It is the oldest and most authoritative hymn dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi (Sri), the divine consort of Lord Vishnu and the embodiment of wealth, prosperity, beauty, and grace.
The Devata is Sri (Goddess Lakshmi). The hymn employs various Vedic metres. It is traditionally recited with offerings of ghee into the sacred fire (homa).
Structure
- Mantras 1–5: Invocation of Sri — Calling upon Jatavedas (Fire God) to bring Lakshmi, describing Her radiance and lotus-seat
- Mantras 6–10: Glory of Sri — Her attributes, sovereignty over all beings, the Bilva tree, and driving away of misfortune
- Mantras 11–15: Prayers for Blessings — Invoking Her sons Kardama and Chiklita, and praying for Her permanent residence
- Mantras 16–19: Phala Shruti — The fruits of recitation and final salutations to the lotus-dwelling Goddess
Significance
- The oldest and most authoritative Vedic hymn to Goddess Lakshmi
- Chanted daily in Vishnu temples during Abhishekam and Archana
- Central to Lakshmi Puja, Deepavali, Navaratri, and all prosperity-related ceremonies
- Invokes not just material wealth but also spiritual prosperity and grace
- The Bilva tree (Mantra 6) connects Sri worship to nature and austerity
- Describes Lakshmi as inseparable from Vishnu and as the sovereign of all beings
Benefits of Recitation
- Invokes the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and well-being
- Removes Alakshmi (misfortune, poverty, and inauspiciousness)
- Bestows material wealth, spiritual merit, and inner contentment
- Purifies the home and brings harmony to family life
- Especially powerful when recited during Fridays, Pournami, and Lakshmi-related festivals
- Traditionally recited 108 times with ghee offerings for maximum benefit