Varalaxmi Vratam 2017: Significance of the Varalaxmi Vrat and Fasting Rituals

 

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While the Vrata can be performed by men and women, it is generally the women of the family, who observe the fast to seek blessings for the well-being of her family members. Married women who have been facing trouble in conceiving also observe the fast religiously to fulfil their prayers. Worshiping Goddess Varalakshmi on this day is believed to be equivalent to worshiping Ashtalaksmi - a group of eight manifestations of Devi Lakshmi, which includes, Siri(Wealth), Bhu (Earth), Sarasvathi (Learning), Prithi (Love), Keerthi (Fame), Shanthi (Peace), Santhushti (Pleasure), and Pushti (Strength). It is also believed that the overall health, wealth and prosperity of a unit relies upon the rhythmic play of these forces, hence worshipping Goddess Lakshmi can help devotees attain this balance.

It is believed that Godess Parvati observed the fast for her beloved consort and for the prosperity and happiness of her family, and since then it has been a popular tradition for women across South India to observe the Varalaxmi Vrat or Varalaxmi Vratam on the Shukla Paksh of Shravana month. Women wake up early, observe the ritualistic fast and perform the Pooja, in which they offer fresh sweets and flowers to the Goddess. A kalash or brass pot(representing the deity) is wrapped and decorated with a saree. A swastika symbol is drawn with kumkum and sandalwood paste. The kalash pot is filled with raw rice or water, coins, five different kinds of leaves, and beetle nut. The items used in the kalash vary from region to region like turmeric, comb, mirror, small black bangles and black beads.Flowers and gold jewelry with offerings are placed in front of it. Finally, some mango leaves are placed on the mouth of the kalash, and a coconut smeared with turmeric is used to close the mouth of the kalash. A sacred thread that is tied during Varalakshmi Puja is called the Dorak.

 

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These are the lagna (timings) for VaraLaxmi Pooja 2017

• Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat = 06:44 a.m to 09:01 a.m

Duration = 2 Hours 17 Minutes

• Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat = 13:36 p.m. to 3:55 p.m.

Duration = 2 Hours 18 Minutes

• Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat = 7:42 p.m. to 9:09 p.m.

Duration = 1 Hour 27 Minutes

• Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat = 12:10 a.m+ to 2:05 a.m

Duration = 1 Hour 55 Minutes