How to Perform Varalakshmi Vratham? Here Are the Complete Details

Varalakshmi Vratham is traditionally observed on the Friday before the full moon during the holy Shravan month. This year, devotees may observe the vratam on August 21 or August 28, depending on their family tradition. Devotees should wake up early, take a bath, clean the house and decorate the entrance with rangoli, mango leaves and flowers. All pooja materials should be kept ready before beginning the rituals.

Pooja Procedure

A mandapam should be arranged in the northeast corner of the house, followed by the installation of the kalasham with water, akshatas, flowers, mango leaves, a red cloth and a coconut. Goddess Varalakshmi should then be beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and lamps should be lit. The rituals traditionally begin with Ganapati Pooja, followed by the Varalakshmi Pooja with the prescribed Shodashopachara rituals and Ashtottara Shatanama prayers.

Thora Pooja and Vayanam

Thora Pooja is an important part of the Varalakshmi Vratham. Five sacred thoras should be prepared—one for the Goddess, one for the devotee and three for married women. Each thora traditionally contains nine strands and nine knots. After the pooja, at least three married women are offered vayanam containing turmeric, kumkum, flowers, fruits, betel leaves, areca nuts, bangles and other auspicious items. The vratam concludes with the recitation of the vratakatha, mangala harathi and prayers for the family's well-being.