Alakshmi- Hindu GodDeity"Goddess of Misfortune"
Also known as: Jyeshtha, Jyeṣṭhā, Daridra, Daridrā, अलक्ष्मी, and Alakṣmī
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Description
She emerged from the churning of the ocean before Lakshmi, before the treasures, before anything auspicious. Haggard and disheveled, riding a crow, Alakshmi is the elder sister no one wanted, the goddess of misfortune who dwells wherever quarrel and neglect drive Lakshmi away.
Mythology & Lore
Born from the Churning
The Linga Purana and Padma Purana call Alakshmi the firstborn of the churning of the cosmic ocean. She emerged before the treasures and blessings, just as the Halahala poison rose before the nectar. Where Lakshmi appeared golden and radiant on a lotus, Alakshmi was haggard and disheveled, riding a crow. The Padma Purana names her Jyeshtha, "the Elder One," but seniority brought her nothing. She was overshadowed the moment Lakshmi rose from the foam.
The Unwanted Bride
No god or sage would marry her willingly. The Padma Purana relates that she was eventually wedded to a reluctant husband on one condition: she would dwell wherever people were lazy or ungrateful, the places Lakshmi would never inhabit. Where homes are clean and families at peace, Lakshmi stays. Where quarrels fester and dharma is abandoned, Alakshmi enters.
Relationships
- Enemy of