Mother Lakshmi
The Goddess of Fortune
Lakshmi is the Goddess of Fortune and her name literally means "money". She is the one to pray to for prosperity. Without her blessing one becomes poor and filled with lack. Gold coins pour forth from her hand as another of her hands issues forth blessings. Her other two hands normally hold lotus flowers. She is extremely beautiful and nicely dressed. She is normally seen either standing or sitting on a lotus flower. Lotus flowers represent purity and fertility. Also she is generally seen surrounded by elephants who pour water on her, the water being another symbol of good fortune. Her four arms represent the four spiritual virtues of prosperity, purity, chastity and generosity. Wherever she is there is always happiness.
Anywhere There is Vishnu There is Also Lakshmi
Lakshmi is married to Vishnu and generally when Vishnu descends in avatar form she also follows. Anywhere there is Vishnu there is also Lakshmi. It is said that Lakshmi resides on the chest of Vishnu as a special mark.