In honour of Mahalakshmi Vratham

The story of Varalakshmi Vratham:

It is said that Lord Shiva Himself explained this vrat to Devi Parvati. Varalakshmi (Vara - boon (granting) Lakshmi - Goddess. Fasting and worshiping the Goddess who grants boons).

Once, Shiva and Parvati were playing a game of chess. Parvati was winning every game but Shiva claimed that the victory was His just to tease his consort. Parvati decided to have an umpire to decide the winner. A subordinate of Lord Shiva, Chitranemi by name, was chosen to be the umpire. Chitranemi sided with Shiva (unjustly) as he was originally created by Shiva Himself, which angered Parvati immensely. She cursed Chitranemi to become a leper for not being true to his duties. Chitranemi begged for forgiveness and Lord Shiva to interceded in Chitranemi's behalf. Goddess Parvati relented and said that Chitranemi would be cured by observing Varalakshmi Vratham. Chitranemi got rid of the disease by observing this vrat.


There is another story:

In the town of Kindalinapura, there was a highly pious and devoted woman named Charumati. Pleased with her devotion to her husband and her service to her in-laws, Goddess Lakshmi appeared in her dream and instructed her to worship Her as Varalakshmi. Charumati informed about this to her family members and they were supportive. She also shared the dream with her neighbours and everyone jointly worshiped the Goddess and obtained great wealth.

It is said that those who observe this vrat will be prosperous.

It is a vrat that women in particular follow with great devotion. The women of the family pray for their husband's and children's happiness and prosperity and tie a sacred string around the family members' (right) wrists.

Wishing everyone a happy and prosperous life ahead...