Introduction to Kubera
Kubera is said to be the lord of wealth and treasure and his abode is believed to be in a place called Alakapuri, north of the Himalayas. He is also considered the king of Yakshas. He is counted among the Ashta-lokapalas (protectors of the eight directions), and is worshipped especially by merchants and those who aspire for wealth.
Characteristics of Kubera
God of Wealth: Kubera is the god of wealth and treasure, whose worship bestows economic prosperity and splendor on a person. He is the lord of wealth and distributes wealth in the world.
Protector of North Direction: Kubera is the Dikpal of the North direction. In Vastu Shastra, the North direction is considered the direction of Kubera and by meditating in this direction, a person attains wealth and property.
King of Yakshas: Kubera is considered the king of Yakshas. Yakshas are divine beings in mythology who protect wealth and treasures.
Virup: Kubera is called "Virup" because he has one leg shorter. However, despite his unusual physical appearance, he is a great deity and is considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
Appearance of Kubera
Kubera is usually depicted with a short stature, chubby body, and holding a money bag or a mace in one hand. His vehicle is considered to be the demon Pushpaka, the king of humans or an elephant. Sometimes he is also depicted with three legs, eight teeth and yellow colour.
Worship and Importance of Kubera
Attainment of Wealth: Kubera is worshipped mainly to attain wealth, prosperity, and economic stability. He is the lord of wealth, and by his grace one attains economic prosperity.
Worship of traders: People from the trading class especially worship Kubera. He is specially worshipped on festivals like Dhanteras, Diwali and Akshaya Tritiya, which brings wealth and success to the person.
Importance in Vastu: According to Vastu Shastra, the north direction has special importance in homes and business institutions, as it is considered to be the direction of Kuber. Wealth and property can be increased by paying attention to the north direction.
Major stories related to Kuber
Ravana and Kubera: Both Kubera and Ravana were sons of Vishrava Rishi. Kubera was earlier the king of Lanka, but Ravana defeated him and took over Lanka. After this, Kubera moved to Alakapuri in the north of the Himalayas and built his new residence there.
Pushpak Vimana: Kubera had a wonderful aircraft called Pushpak Vimana, which could fly to any place. But Ravana snatched it and kept it with himself. After the end of Ravana, this aircraft came to Lord Rama, who returned it back to Kubera.
Shiva and Kubera: Kubera is considered to be the ultimate devotee of Lord Shiva. According to a legend, when Kubera became arrogant due to his wealth and opulence, Lord Shiva taught him how to use wealth for charity and dharma. Kubera learned the right use of wealth from then on.
Kubera and Lakshmi
Kubera and Lakshmi, both are the god and goddess of wealth and prosperity. Goddess Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and happiness, while Kubera is considered to be the protector and distributor of wealth and treasure. By worshipping both of them, a person gets wealth, splendor, and happiness.
Kubera is the main god of wealth and prosperity in Hinduism. By worshipping him, a person gets financial stability, prosperity, and wealth. He is not only the protector of wealth but also symbolizes the right use of money. By his grace, a person not only becomes wealthy but also achieves success and peace in his life.
