Embrace Abundance in 2024: Unraveling the Mysteries of Varalakshmi Vratham

Varalakshmi Vratham is an auspicious festival celebrated by Hindus, especially by married women, in honor of the goddess Varalakshmi - the goddess of wealth and prosperity. In 2022, Varalakshmi Vratham will be observed on August 12th, which falls on a Friday. This sacred day holds immense significance for those seeking the blessings of Goddess Varalakshmi for a prosperous and wealthy life. On this auspicious occasion, devotees perform rituals and offer prayers to invoke divine blessings for their families and loved ones.

The name Varalakshmi itself signifies the bestower of boons (Vara) and the embodiment of wealth (Lakshmi). It is believed that worshipping Goddess Varalakshmi on this day is equal to worshipping the Ashtalakshmi - the eight forms of the goddess, each representing a different aspect of life. This festival is predominantly celebrated in the southern states of India, including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. However, its popularity has gradually spread to other parts of India as well.

Preparations for Varalakshmi Vratham start days in advance. Devotees clean their homes, draw rangoli designs at the entrance, and shop for new clothes, puja items, and offerings for the goddess. On the day of the festival, women wake up early, take a holy bath, and put on their new clothes. They then set up a designated puja area, usually in the northeast corner of the house, and install an idol or picture of Goddess Varalakshmi on a decorated platform.

The puja rituals include offering prayers, reciting slokas and mantras, and performing the Varalakshmi Vratham Kalasha Sthapana – the installation of a sacred pot filled with water, rice, and coins, topped with a coconut, symbolizing the goddess. A sacred thread called the 'Varalakshmi Vratham thread' or 'dorak' is then tied around the pot and the wrists of the worshippers. Offerings such as flowers, fruits, sweets, and other delicacies are made to the goddess, followed by aarati and the singing of devotional songs in her praise.

Observing Varalakshmi Vratham with utmost devotion is believed to bring happiness, good fortune, and well-being to the family. It is said that Goddess Varalakshmi grants her devotees long life, health, wealth, and spiritual enlightenment. As a festival that strengthens the bond between family members and promotes harmony and prosperity, Varalakshmi Vratham serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude and reverence in our lives.