Varalakshmi Vratam is a prominent festival celebrated in several Indian states, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. It falls on a Friday during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Shravana, which typically corresponds to July-August in the Gregorian calendar.
The festival honors Goddess Varalakshmi, a form of Lakshmi who grants boons (‘vara’ means boon). It’s primarily observed by married women who fast and perform rituals seeking blessings for their families and husbands. The celebration focuses on invoking the goddess’s favor for prosperity, well-being, and the fulfillment of desires.
Varalakshmi Vratam Muhurat
Varalakshmi Vratam on Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) – 05:57 AM to 08:14 AM
Duration – 02 Hours 17 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) – 12:50 PM to 03:08 PM
Duration – 02 Hours 19 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) – 06:55 PM to 08:22 PM
Duration – 01 Hour 27 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) – 11:22 PM to 01:18 AM, Aug 17
Duration – 01 Hour 56 Mins
Goddess Varalakshmi:
An Overview Varalakshmi, a manifestation of Goddess Mahalakshmi and Lord Vishnu’s consort, is revered as the deity of wealth and prosperity. Legend has it that she emerged from the Kshir Sagar (ocean of milk), and is often depicted with a complexion and attire reminiscent of this origin. Devotees believe Varalakshmi grants boons and fulfills wishes, hence her name: ‘Vara’ (boon) + ‘Lakshmi’.
Understanding Varalakshmi Vrat
This fast occurs on the final Friday of Shravana Shukla Paksha, shortly before Rakhi and Shravana Purnima. The origins of Varalakshmi Vratam are steeped in mythology, emphasizing the importance of marital bliss and prosperity in the family. According to legend, Goddess Parvati, upon questioning about the most beneficial vratam for women, was informed by Lord Shiva about the observance of Varalakshmi Vratam. It is believed that observing this vratam with devotion and sincerity brings blessings of wealth, well-being, and harmony in the family.
How to perform Varalakshmi Vratham Puja
Preparation:
- Cleanliness: Cleanse the house and the puja area thoroughly.
- Items Needed: Arrange all the necessary puja items including a Kalasha (pot), turmeric, vermilion, betel leaves, betel nuts, coconut, flowers, fruits, rice, and sweets.
- Decoration: Decorate the puja area with rangoli and fresh flowers.
Setting Up the Kalasha (Sacred Pot):
- Kalasha Preparation: Fill the Kalasha with rice or water. Place betel leaves, betel nuts, turmeric, and vermilion on top. Wrap a thread around the neck of the Kalasha.
- Coconut Placement: Place a coconut on top of the Kalasha. Decorate it with turmeric and vermilion.
Varalakshmi Vratham Puja Procedure:
- Ganesh Puja: Begin by invoking Lord Ganesha and seeking his blessings for the successful completion of the puja.
- Varalakshmi Idol or Picture: Place an idol or picture of Goddess Varalakshmi on a decorated platform or in front of the Kalasha.
- Kalasha Puja: Perform the puja to the Kalasha by chanting mantras dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. Offer flowers, turmeric, vermilion, and rice as you chant.
- Varalakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali: Recite the 108 names of Goddess Lakshmi (Varalakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamavali) while offering flowers or akshata (uncooked rice) to the goddess.
- Varalakshmi Vrat Katha: Narrate or listen to the story of Varalakshmi Vratam, highlighting the significance and benefits of observing this vrat.
- Offerings: Offer fruits, sweets, betel leaves, betel nuts, coconut, and other traditional dishes to the goddess.
- Arati: Perform arati to Goddess Varalakshmi with camphor or ghee lamp while singing devotional songs.
- Prayers and Mantras: Chant other prayers and mantras dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi seeking her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
- Distribution of Prasad: Distribute the blessed prasad (offerings) to family members and guests as a symbol of divine blessings.
Performing Varalakshmi Vratham puja with devotion and adherence to these rituals is believed to bring the blessings of Goddess Varalakshmi, ensuring prosperity, happiness, and fulfillment of desires for the devotees.
