DivineInfoGuru.com Varalakshmi Pooja Items List
Varalakshmi Vratam is a Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Varalakshmi, who is believed to bestow wealth and prosperity upon her devotees. This festival is mainly celebrated by married women in South India, especially in states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. The festival usually falls on the second Friday or the Friday before the full moon day in the month of Shravana (July-August) according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
During the Varalakshmi Pooja, a special worship ceremony is performed to honor Goddess Varalakshmi. Devotees typically prepare a sacred space in their homes, set up an idol or picture of Goddess Varalakshmi, and perform the rituals with great devotion. Here are some of the essential items and offerings commonly used during the Varalakshmi Pooja:
- Idol or Picture of Goddess Varalakshmi: A sacred image or idol of Goddess Varalakshmi is the central focus of the pooja.
- Turmeric and Kumkum (Saffron Powder): These are used to apply tilak (vermilion mark) on the goddess’s idol or picture.
- Flowers: Fresh flowers, especially jasmine and marigold, are used for decorating the idol and creating a festive atmosphere.
- Mango Leaves: Mango leaves are considered auspicious and are used to adorn the doorway or the space where the pooja is performed.
- Coconut: A whole coconut with its husk is often used in the pooja. It symbolizes fertility and prosperity.
- Rice: Raw rice grains are used as an offering.
- Coins: Some people place coins in front of the goddess as a representation of wealth.
- Lamps and Incense: Oil lamps or diyas, along with incense sticks, are used to create a sacred atmosphere.
- Fruits: Various fruits are offered as part of the pooja.
- Sweets and Prasad: Traditional sweets and dishes are prepared and offered to the goddess, and then distributed as prasad (blessed food) among the devotees.
- Sacred Thread or Rope: A sacred thread, usually yellow or red, is tied around the Kalash (a sacred pot) used in the pooja.
- Kalash (Sacred Pot): A brass or silver pot filled with water, adorned with turmeric, vermilion, and leaves, is an essential component of the pooja.
- Rice Flour: Rice flour is used to create intricate rangoli (decorative designs) on the floor.
- Cotton Wicks: Cotton wicks are used in the oil lamps.
- Sandalwood Paste and Incense: These are used for applying tilak and creating a pleasant fragrance.
- Betel Leaves and Areca Nuts: These are offered to the goddess as part of the pooja.
- Silver or Gold Jewelry: Some devotees offer jewelry items as a mark of respect and devotion.
It’s important to note that while these are the common items used during Varalakshmi Pooja, traditions and practices can vary based on regional customs and personal preferences. Before conducting the pooja, it’s a good idea to consult with elders or a priest for guidance on the specific rituals and items to include.