Which deity's idol to keep in the office, and facing which direction: what Vastu beliefs say

Whether it is an office, a shop or an institution, everyone wants progress at work, success, no shortage of money and peace of mind. Hard work, planning, discipline and positive thinking are needed for that, but many people also keep an idol or picture of a deity in the office according to their faith. The questions that arise are which deity's idol should be kept, in which direction it should be placed, and whether one's chosen deity (ishtadevta) or family deity (kuldevta) can be worshipped in the office.

In Hindu tradition and Vastu Shastra, Lord Ganesha is regarded as the remover of obstacles and the giver of wisdom. It is customary to worship him at the start of any auspicious work, and he is also called the presiding deity of auspicious undertakings. For this reason, keeping an idol or picture of Ganesha in an office or place of business is considered auspicious. An idol with a calm and cheerful posture can be kept in the office. According to Vastu tradition, many people prefer a seated Ganesha.

Goddess Lakshmi is regarded as the goddess of wealth, opulence, prosperity and good fortune. Many traders keep a picture or idol of Lakshmi in the office, wishing for financial stability in business, a flourishing enterprise and smooth transactions. In particular, Lakshmi puja is performed in offices, shops and commercial establishments on the day of Lakshmi Puja during Diwali.

Lord Kubera is regarded as the god of wealth and the guardian of riches. Traders, entrepreneurs and people involved in financial transactions therefore keep a picture or idol of Kubera in the office. In some Vastu Shastra traditions the north direction is associated with Kubera, so this is kept in mind when placing a prayer space or an idol of Kubera. However, it is not right to assume that merely keeping an idol guarantees financial gain.

Lord Hanuman is regarded as a symbol of strength, devotion, patience, loyalty and the spirit of service. Many people remember Hanuman to keep their courage up when facing challenges at work. A calm picture of him showing devotion can be kept in the office, and worship or prayer can also be offered according to one's faith. Remembering him can inspire patience, restraint and devotion to duty.

It is also fine to keep a picture of one's chosen deity or family deity in the office and worship with devotion. Everyone's way of worship is different. Some begin the day by remembering Shri Ram, some Shri Krishna, some Lord Shankar, and some their family goddess (kulswamini). The purpose of remembering a deity is that the mind finds steadiness, devotion to work grows and conduct stays good.

While performing any religious ritual in the office, one should respect the faith of colleagues and the rules of the office. In a shared office in particular, care should be taken that nobody is inconvenienced.

On direction, the prevailing belief in Vastu Shastra is that the Ishan, or north-east, direction is favourable for a place of worship. Depending on the layout and the space available, the office prayer area can be considered for this direction. Some Vastu traditions also give importance to the east.

Daily worship in the office is not necessary. Depending on one's faith, it may be enough to bow to the deity before starting work in the morning, recite a mantra or pray quietly for a few moments. If a lamp or incense is to be lit, the office's fire safety rules, ventilation and the comfort of colleagues should be kept in mind. In many offices lighting a flame or incense is not possible. In that case, praying silently or remembering the deity is the way. Remembering a deity can give inspiration for peace of mind, but hard work and planning are just as necessary for success.