‘Arth’ or prosperity is one of the four goals
of life. In most early Indian literature the world is viewed from the
angle of the well-to-do. Poverty is living death; to serve another for
one’s keep is a dog’s life and not worthy of a noble person. From the
time of the Rig-Veda which contains many prayers for riches, worldly
wealth is looked on as morally desirable for the ordinary person and
indeed essential to a full and civilized life. Hindus worship Laxmi
(Goddess of wealth) on the day of Dipavali. Of course, one should not
forget righteousness while striving for livelihood and riches.