Varalakshmi Vratam is a festival widely popular in parts of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. It is observed in Shravana (July-August) Shukla Paksha on Friday. This year, Varalakshmi Vratam will be celebrated on 16th August 2024.

As a tribute to Goddess Lakshmi, many married women fast on this day and seek blessings for their families and husbands. ‘Vara’ translates to boons, which Lakshmi bestows on her worshippers.

Varalakshmi Vratam Date in 2024

How is Varalakshmi Vratam Celebrated?

Married women fast on Thursday from sunrise to sunset and make arrangements for the pooja. On Friday, devotees wake up early in the morning for a head bath just before sunrise. The house is cleaned and decorated with rangoli and Kalasha.

The Kalasha is coated with Chandan (sandalwood) paste and filled with various items that differ from region to region. Raw rice, coins, turmeric, and leaves are used to fill the pot, and then a ‘Swastika’ symbol is drawn.

Lastly, the Kalasha is decorated with Mango leaves and coconut smeared with turmeric is used to cover it. The pooja begins with worshipping Lord Ganesha, chanting slokas, performing arati, and offering sweets to the deity. Women tie yellow threads on their hands and exchange gifts.

Boiled legumes, pongal and sweets made from jaggery are distributed. Devotees complete the rituals on Saturday and dismantle mantle the Kalasha after taking a bath. Observing Varalakshmi Vratam is believed to bring peace, prosperity and financial blessings.

Importance of Varalakshmi Vratam

Varalakshmi Vratam, also known as Varalakshmi Puja, is a significant religious observance where people, both men and women, worship Goddess Varalakshmi. She is revered as the divine bestower of wealth, prosperity, courage, wisdom, and fertility. During this Vratam, devotees seek her abundant blessings for themselves and their families.

Participating in the Varalakshmi Puja is believed to be akin to honoring all eight diverse manifestations of Goddess Lakshmi. This ritual is thought to bring about various favorable outcomes, including: 

• Dhanam (Monetary Benefits): The ritual is believed to attract financial prosperity and wealth.
• Dhanyam (Abundance of Food and Grains): Devotees anticipate the abundance of food and grains in their lives.

• Arokkyam (Good Health): Seeking blessings for sound physical well-being.
• Sampath (Wealth and Property): Aspiring for the accumulation of material assets and riches.
• Santhanam (Virtuous Offspring): Hoping for the birth of virtuous and healthy progeny.
• Deerka Sumangali Bakkyam (Longevity of Husband): Wishing for the extended life of one’s spouse.
• Veeram (Courage): Seeking inner strength and courage to face challenges.

• Gaja Lakshmi (Freedom from Debts): Aspiring to be free from debts and financial burdens.

Married women traditionally fast during this day, breaking their fast after performing the puja. The Varalakshmi Vrat is a way to express devotion and seek blessings from Goddess Varalakshmi, ultimately aiming for various forms of prosperity and well-being in life.