Varalakshmi Vratam
Varamahalakshmi Vrata is a festival to propitiate the goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, one of the Hindu Trinity. Varalakshmi is one who grants boons (Vara). It is an important pooja performed by many women in the states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The Hindu festival going by the name 'Vara Maha Lakshmi Vrata' is celebrated on the Second Friday or the Friday before full moon day - Poornima in the month of Shravaṇā,
While contents may vary, a standard Varalakshmi Vratam Pooja Kit usually includes:
- Kalash (copper or brass pot): Used to hold water and symbolize abundance.
- Coconut: An essential offering to the goddess.
- Turmeric powder (haldi): For applying tilak and other rituals.
- Kumkum (vermilion): For auspicious markings.
- Betel leaves and nuts: For offerings.
- Flowers: To decorate the puja altar.
- Incense sticks and camphor: For creating a divine atmosphere.
- Varamahalakshmi Idol: Beautiful Goddess Varalaksmi Idol used for pooja during Varamahalakshmi Vratha Pooja
- Gowri Face: Gowri face used for varalakshmi pooja and Shravanamasam Pooja
- Varamahalakshmi Face: Beautiful Varalaksmi mask used for pooja during Varamahalakshmi Vratha Pooja
- Ammavari Vastrallu: Ammavari Vastrallu refers to the clothing offered to the Hindu Goddess, typically during religious ceremonies or festivals.
- Parimala Gandham: Parimala Gandham is a type of fragrant sandalwood oil, often used in Hindu religious rituals and ceremonies. It's believed to have a calming and purifying effect, and is often used to anoint deities and perform abhishekams (sacred baths)
- Daivikam: Daivikam is primarily known as a type of incense or dhoop with strong spiritual and protective properties.
- Lakshmi Tamara Vattulu: Lakshmi Tamara Vattulu are special types of wicks used in Hindu religious rituals, particularly for invoking the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
- Parimala Juvadi: Parimala Juvadi is a fragrant substance commonly used in Hindu religious rituals. It's often described as having a pleasant aroma and is believed to be pleasing to deities.
- Blouse Pieces: Silk is a classic choice for Varalakshmi Pooja because of its rich texture and luster.
- Tambulam: Tambulam is a Sanskrit term that refers to a betel leaf preparation, traditionally offered as a mark of respect, hospitality, or as a part of religious rituals in India. It typically consists of: Betel leaf (paan) Areca nut (supari), Lime paste (chunam), Clove (lavang), Catechu (kattha).
- Agarbathi: Agarbathi is the Indian term for incense sticks. These fragrant sticks have been an integral part of Indian culture and spirituality for centuries.
- Ashtamulika Oil: It's considered highly auspicious and is used in various Hindu rituals. Lighting lamps with Ashtamulika Oil is believed to attract divine blessings, particularly those of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
If you prefer convenience, ready-made Varalakshmi Pooja kits are available online and in stores. These kits typically include most of the necessary items. Aaravali Kukuma, Sumangali Pasupu, Lakshmi Chandanam, Lakshmidevi Face, Copper Kalasam, Ammavari Vastrallu, Parimala Gandham, Parimala Juvadi Daivikam, Lakshmi Tamara Vattulu, Betel Nuts, Turmeric Roots, Blouse Pieces, Tambulam, Agarbathi, Ashtamulika Oil (100ML)