Varalakshmi Vratam is a dedicated vow (vratam) to Goddess Varalakshmi — the form of Lakshmi who grants boons (vara). It is observed mainly by married women for the wellbeing, health and prosperity of their family.
When is Varalakshmi Vratam observed?
It falls on the Friday before the full moon (Pournami) in the Telugu month of Shravana, usually in July or August. The exact date each year is taken from the panchang.
Significance
Worshipping Varalakshmi on this day is believed to be equivalent to worshipping Ashtalakshmi (the eight forms of Lakshmi). The vow is taken with devotion for the family’s welfare.
Varalakshmi Vratham katha (story)
The vrata katha tells of Charumati, a devout woman of Kundinapuram, to whom Goddess Varalakshmi appeared in a dream and asked her to observe this vratam. Charumati and the women of her town performed it with devotion and were blessed with prosperity and wellbeing — which is why the vratam is observed to this day.
Varalakshmi vratham pooja vidhanam (procedure)
- 1Cleaning the space and preparing a decorated kalasham representing the Goddess.
- 2Sankalpam and invocation of Goddess Varalakshmi into the kalasham.
- 3Shodashopachara pooja and recitation of the Ashtottara / Sahasranama.
- 4Tying the sacred thread (toram), reading the Varalakshmi Vrata Katha and aarti.
- 5Offering naivedyam and distributing prasadam and tamboolam.
Varalakshmi vratham samagri
- Kalasham, coconut, mango leaves and a Lakshmi face / idol if available
- Turmeric, kumkum, flowers (especially lotus), and the sacred thread (toram)
- Fruits, jaggery, and items for naivedyam
- Lamp, ghee, camphor and tamboolam (betel leaves and nuts)
Who performs Varalakshmi Vratam?
It is traditionally observed by married women at home; a pandit can guide the full vidhanam in person or online, and recite the katha and mantras.
Can the vratam be done online?
Yes — a verified pandit guides the vidhanam and recites the katha live over video, with the samagri kept ready at home.