Varalakshmi Vratham

The festival of Varalakshmi Vratham brings with it an air of celebration, devotion and happiness. This auspicious festival is celebrated by Hindu women, especially in the southern parts of India. It is dedicated to worshipping the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, known as the Astalakshmi - the Goddess of wealth, wisdom, love, fame, peace, contentment and strength. Numerous customs and rituals mark the festival of Varalakshmi, and one of the most cherished aspects of this celebration is the donning of exquisite gold jewellery.

Varalakshmi Vratham is primarily performed by married women for their own well-being and to seek Goddess Lakshmi’s blessing for their spouse’s longevity and their family’s prosperity. Preparations for the Varalakshmi festival begin well in advance. Homes are cleaned and decorated with vibrant flowers and rangolis. The atmosphere is filled with the scent of incense and melodious bhajans sung in honour of the Goddess Lakshmi. The women of the house dress in traditional silk sarees and adorn themselves with beautiful gold jewellery to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.

Gold jewellery plays a significant role during the Varalakshmi festival as it symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. Intricately designed gold, diamond and silver jewellery pieces are favoured choices during this time. Gold, in particular, holds immense significance during this festival as it is believed to bring good luck and financial prosperity to the family. Here are some popular jewellery pieces for Varalakshmi Vratham.

Gold bangles are integral to a woman's attire during the Varalakshmi festival. Traditional gold bangles are widely worn during this occasion. Gold bangles with Lakshmi motifs are popular among women. Studded with diamonds and precious gemstones, they adorn their hands, adding beauty and grace.

Earrings are treasured jewellery pieces that enhance a woman's beauty. Exquisite gold earrings, often featuring intricate craftsmanship studded with diamonds and precious gems, are popular to celebrate the occasion. Popular choices include Lakshmi designs or motifs studded with precious gemstones or diamonds.

Elaborate necklaces with stunning pendant designs hold cultural significance and are considered auspicious during this festival. Goddess Lakshmi motifs are commonly incorporated into necklace designs. Long haram necklaces, as well as short necklaces with precious gems, are worn by women during this time.

Waistbands are traditional belts worn around the waist and are believed to signify a woman's status and prosperity. The Astalakshmi vaddanam, a gold waist belt with the motifs of the eight Lakshmis, is a traditional jewellery piece that women love to wear during the Varalakshmi festival.

The Varalakshmi festival is a beautiful occasion that fills people's hearts with devotion and hope for prosperity. Through the act of adorning exquisite gold and diamond jewellery, women not only celebrate the Goddess but also uphold the rich cultural heritage of South India. The gleam of gold and the sparkle of diamonds and precious stones add an extra shine to women's smiles, making the Varalakshmi festival truly memorable.