Varalakshmi Vratam is a significant and auspicious Hindu festival celebrated by women across India. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Varalakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to bestow wealth, prosperity, and well-being upon her devotees. In 2024, Varalakshmi Vratam falls on Friday, August 16th.
The Significance of Varalakshmi Vratam
The word ‘Varalakshmi’ is derived from ‘Vara,’ meaning boon, and ‘Lakshmi,’ the goddess of wealth. According to Hindu mythology, worshiping Goddess Varalakshmi on this day is equivalent to worshiping Ashta Lakshmis, the eight forms of Lakshmi representing different types of wealth: Adi Lakshmi (Primeval Lakshmi), Dhana Lakshmi (Wealth), Dhanya Lakshmi (Food), Gaja Lakshmi (Elephants), Santana Lakshmi (Progeny), Veera Lakshmi (Valor), Vidya Lakshmi (Wisdom), and Vijaya Lakshmi (Victory).
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Rituals and Traditions
- Preparation and Fasting: Women begin preparations early in the morning, cleaning their homes and creating beautiful rangolis at the entrance. They take a ritual bath and observe a fast until the evening puja.
- Decorating the Deity: A Kalash (a brass or silver pot) is decorated with turmeric, kumkum, and fresh flowers. The face of the goddess, usually a silver or gold mask, is placed on the Kalash, and it is adorned with a sari, jewelry, and flowers.
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- Puja and Offerings: The main puja is performed in the evening. Women chant Vedic mantras, sing devotional songs, and offer various items such as fruits, sweets, betel leaves, betel nuts, and coins to the goddess. Special dishes like jaggery rice, tamarind rice, and coconut rice are prepared and offered.
- Vrata Katha: An important part of the ritual is listening to or reciting the Varalakshmi Vrata Katha, a story narrating the significance of the vratam and the miracles performed by Goddess Varalakshmi.
- Thamboolam: After the puja, married women (Sumangalis) exchange thamboolam, which includes turmeric, kumkum, betel leaves, fruits, and bangles, as a mark of goodwill and blessings.
Celebrating Varalakshmi Vratam in the USA
For those living in the USA, celebrating Varalakshmi Vratam can be a beautiful way to stay connected with cultural roots and traditions. While it may not always be possible to recreate the exact atmosphere of the festivities back home, there are several ways to celebrate meaningfully:
- Virtual Gatherings: Organize virtual puja sessions with family and friends to collectively participate in the rituals.
- Sourcing Puja Items: Many online stores and Indian grocery stores in the USA provide all the necessary items for the puja, including fresh flowers, puja kits, and traditional food items.
- Decorations and Preparations: Decorate your home with traditional motifs, rangolis, and floral arrangements. Engage children and family members in the preparations to instill a sense of tradition and togetherness.
- Sharing and Caring: Send thamboolam or small gifts to other families and friends, keeping the spirit of the festival alive.
Conclusion
varalaxmi vratam 2024 is a celebration of prosperity, well-being, and the strength of womanhood. As we honor Goddess Varalakshmi on this auspicious day, let us embrace the values of generosity, devotion, and community. At Indian Flowers in USA, we are dedicated to bringing a touch of tradition and festivity to your celebrations with our exquisite floral arrangements and puja items. May this Varalakshmi Vratam bring you and your loved ones abundance, happiness, and divine blessings.
