Varalakshmi Vratam is one of the most important festivals observed by Telugu women. Celebrated on the Friday before Shravana Purnima (full moon), it is dedicated to Varalakshmi — a form of Goddess Lakshmi who grants boons (Vara). Married women observe this vow to seek prosperity, health, and longevity for their husbands and families.

The Story of Varalakshmi Vratam

According to the Skanda Purana, a devoted woman named Charumathi of Kundina city was visited by Goddess Lakshmi in a dream, who asked her to observe this vow. Charumathi followed the instructions and was blessed with abundance. Lord Shiva then instructed Parvati to propagate this vow to other women, establishing the tradition. The legend emphasizes that sincere devotion brings the blessings of Lakshmi.

Pooja Vidhanam Step by Step

The puja begins with drawing a kolam, setting up a Kalasha (consecrated pot) decorated with mango leaves and coconut, placing the idol or image of Varalakshmi, and dressing it with new saree and jewelry. The pooja includes Ganapati Puja (first), Kalasha Puja, Varalakshmi Puja with 16-step Shodashopachara, recitation of the Varalakshmi Vrata Katha, Archana with 108 names, and Aarti. The puja concludes with Udyapana (vow completion) and offering prasadam to neighbors.

What to Prepare

For Varalakshmi Puja you need: a Kalasha, new cloth (saree for the goddess), flowers, turmeric, kumkum, betel leaves and nuts, coconut, fruits, naivedyam (sweetmeats and rice), five types of dry fruits (Pancha Dravya), cotton wicks, camphor, and incense. The Varalakshmi idol or framed image is the centerpiece.