One of the rituals traditionally associated with Diwali is gambling. Families and friends get together to indulge in dice or cards. It is believed that on this day Goddess Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiva (a scene superbly sculpted at Kailash temple, Ellora) and she decreed that whosoever gambled on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuing year. This tradition of playing cards- flash and rummy with stakes on this particular day continues even to-day.
Shiva & Parvati playing dice – Ellora cave 21
More details
First Day – Dhanteras
Second Day – Naraka Chaturdasi/Kali Chaudas
Third Day – Diwali
Fourth Day – Vishvakarma Pooja/Govardhan Pooja
Fifth Day – Bhaiya Dooj
The legend of Diwali gambling
Ganesha & Lakshmi mantras for reciting
Ganesha & Lakshmi Stotras for reciting
