Festivals
Date
Varalakshmi Vrat
About
Varalakshmi Vrat is observed on the Friday before the full moon day in the month of Shravana. It is primarily celebrated in South India by married women for the health, wealth, and prosperity of their families.
Significance:
The word Varalakshmi means the Lakshmi who grants boons. Worshipping her on this day is said to be equivalent to worshipping all the Ashtalakshmis—the eight forms of Lakshmi.
Rituals & Puja Vidhi:
1. Kalash Installation: A sacred pot filled with rice, water, or coins is decorated with mango leaves. A coconut representing the Goddess is placed on top. 2. Alankara: The Kalash is often adorned with a silver or gold face of Goddess Lakshmi and dressed in a saree and jewelry. 3. Puja: A grand shodashopachara puja is performed with special offerings of sweets like Obbattu or Laddu. 4. Thoranam: A sacred thread with nine knots is tied to the right wrist as a mark of protection.