While the holy month of Sawan is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva, it also brings a highly auspicious day to seek the blessings of the Goddess of Wealth—Mata Lakshmi.
Observed on the Friday just before the Shravana Purnima (full moon), Varalakshmi Vrat is a powerful fasting day. This year, this highly revered festival falls on Friday, August 28, 2026.
The word 'Vara' means a boon, and Goddess Lakshmi is the granter of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that performing this Vrat is equivalent to worshipping all eight forms of the Goddess, known as Ashtalakshmi. Let’s explore the profound significance, the legend, and the simple Puja rituals of this sacred day.
Worshipping Goddess Varalakshmi on this day brings the combined blessings of Ashtalakshmi—which translates to eight types of wealth: Financial prosperity, Food, Courage, Progeny, Success, Knowledge, Health, and Strength.
Married women observe this fast for the longevity, health, and success of their husbands.
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi visits the homes of her devotees on this day, removing all traces of poverty and negativity.
According to ancient scriptures, there lived a deeply devoted and righteous woman named Charumati in the kingdom of Magadha. She served her family with utmost dedication and unconditional love.
Impressed by her pure heart and devotion, Goddess Lakshmi appeared in Charumati’s dream. The Goddess instructed her to observe the Varalakshmi Vrat on the Friday before Sawan Purnima to attain ultimate prosperity.
Following the divine instructions, Charumati, along with other women in her neighborhood, performed the Kalash Sthapana and completed the fast. Miraculously, as soon as the Puja concluded, their homes overflowed with gold, cattle, and immense wealth. Since then, the tradition of Varalakshmi Vrat has been passed down through generations.
The central element of this Vrat is the Kalash (sacred pot) Sthapana:
Preparation: Wake up early, bathe, and draw a beautiful Kolam (Rangoli) at the prayer altar.
Kalash Sthapana: Place a wooden plank over the Rangoli, spread some raw rice, and place a brass or copper Kalash on it. Fill it with water, coins, betel nuts, and arrange mango leaves at the mouth.
The Coconut and Face: Place a whole coconut on top. Devotees often tie a silver or metal face mask of Goddess Lakshmi onto the coconut, dressing it in traditional jewelry and a small saree.
The Sacred Thread (Nonbu Saradu): After the Puja, women tie a yellow thread with 9 knots on their right wrist. This acts as a protective shield from the Goddess.
Offerings (Prasad): Sweet dishes, especially Payasam (Kheer), fruits, and traditional delicacies are offered to the Goddess.
Varalakshmi Vrat is a beautiful reminder that true wealth resides in a home where there is love, purity, and respect for women. This August 28, light a lamp, set up a simple Kalash, and invite the divine grace of Mata Lakshmi into your life.
Jai Mahalakshmi! 🚩