Significance
Varalakshmi Vratam is observed by women in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu on the Friday before Shravan Purnima. It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity and well-being.
Mythology & Legend
According to the Skanda Purana, Queen Charumati was instructed by Goddess Lakshmi in a dream to observe this vrat. She did so and was blessed with prosperity. The vrat is believed to grant eight types of wealth (Ashta Lakshmi).
Rituals & Observances
- On the Friday before Purnima, clean the house and prepare the kalash.
- Place a silver or brass pot (kalash) with mango leaves, coconut, and turmeric; dress it as Lakshmi.
- Perform puja with flowers, incense, and prasad; tie a yellow thread around the wrist.
- Invite married women and offer them tambulam (betel leaves, nuts); distribute prasad.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ श्रीं महालक्ष्म्यै नमः
oṃ śrīṃ mahālakṣmyai namaḥ
Salutations to Mahalakshmi
Traditional Foods
- ●Prasad
- ●Puliyodarai
- ●Payasam
- ●Vada
- ●Sweets
Regional Variations
Andhra Pradesh(వరలక్ష్మీ వ్రతం)
Kalash puja, tambulam
Karnataka(ವರಲಕ್ಷ್ಮೀ ವ್ರತ)
Same rituals
Tamil Nadu(வரலட்சுமி விரதம்)
Similar observance
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Perform kalash puja
- ✓Invite married women
- ✓Offer tambulam
- ✓Wear traditional dress
Don'ts
- ✗Do not skip the kalash
- ✗Avoid disrespect to the goddess
- ✗Do not break the thread before the day ends