Article By: Holistic Life Mentor Dr. Badri Narayanan. Ph: 95000 64319. 

Varalakshmi Vratham is a festival observed in glorification of Bhagavathi MahaLakshmi, the consort of Bhagavan Vishnu. This festival is celebrated on the Friday that falls before Pournami in the month of Aadi(shravan). This year Varalakshmi Vratham will be celebrated on August 8. Sri Varalakshmi is one who grants boons (Varam) to her Bhakta’s. 
The origin of Varalakshmi Vratam can be traced back to a story from the Skanda Purana. It revolves around a pious woman named Charumati, who had a dream in which Lakshmi appeared and told her about the significance of observing the wish fulfilling Varalakshmi Vratam and the boon attached to it.
The focal point of the puja involves worshipping a kalash (sacred pot) representing bhagavati Lakshmi. The kalash is filled with rice (sustenance) and water(purity), adorned with mango leaves (prosperity), and a coconut (fulfillment) is placed on top. The women engage in a harmonious blend of spiritual practices, prayers, singing hymns, and illuminating the atmosphere with the traditional aarti.
|After the worship, the women seek the blessings of their elders, respect for ancestors and finally seek the blessings of bhagavati Varalakshmi for the overall wellbeing, prosperity, health and happiness of their families.