Varalakshmi: (Vara = boon, Lakshmi = goddess of wealth)
Varalakshmi Vrata is a festival to propitiate the goddess
Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, one of the Hindu Trinity. Varalakshmi is
one who grants boons (Varam). It is an important pooja performed by many women in the states of AP, Telengana, Karnataka and few parts of TN
.
The Hindu festival going by the name 'Vara Lakshmi Vrata' is celebrated
on the Second Friday or the Friday before full moon day - Poornima in the month of Sravana, which corresponds to the English months of July–August.
Significance - Eight forces or energies are recognised and they are known as Siri
(Wealth), Bhu (Earth), Sarasvathi (learning), Prithvi (love), Keerthi
(Fame), Shanthi (Peace), Santhushti(Pleasure) and Pushti (Strength). Each
one of these forces is called a Lakshmi and all the eight forces are
called the Ashta Lakshmis or the eight Lakshmis of the Hindus. Vishnu is
also called Ashta Lakshmi Padhi which is equivalent to saying that he
is the asylum for the eight-Lakshmis or forces. In fact, Vishnu
representing the preservative aspect of the universe, radiates these
forces from him. These forces are personified and worshiped as Lakshmis,
since abstract force is beyond the comprehension of the ordinary
people. As health, wealth and prosperity depend upon the rhythmic play
of these forces, the worship of Lakshmi is said to be to obtain these
three. This festival is observed largely by women, invoking the
blessings of Lakshmi on them, their husbands and their children (source Wiki)
Shilpa (not only a wonderful friend but also the one who is providing me shelter for my last week stay at Hyderabad) celebrates this festival every year with her family. This year I was fortunate to get the opportunity of experiencing it.
The early morning cleaning rush, setting room for pooja (mango and banana tree leaves, sweet aroma of flowers, fogginess out of dhup in the house) was the scene around when I opened my eyes!! The situation was rhythmically chaotic but so full of energy and positive aura all around!
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| Varalakshmi Celebration Glimpse |
Shilpa decorated (converted) my temporary bedroom in to a pooja room in no time - Flowers, Silver Utensils, Fruits, Lip smacking snacks, Aarti specifications were all set in no time.
Later in the morning when all arrangements were done, she started the pooja and we all tied flower garland with 9 knots around our wrist (married women get this privilege). Post which we all jumped upon the awesomely delicious snacks her mom made for the occasion.
It was a good day and a wonderful experience!
Here is my lovely friend, divinely gorgeous in her beautiful drape!
