Speaking on the significance of Varalakshmi Vrata in the year 2000, Bhagavan said, “Since ancient times, the women of Bharat have upheld the dignity and honour of the family and the community at large. The worship of goddess Varalakshmi earned them Her grace and they could accomplish all this. Varalakshmi is one who grants all the boons that women pray for. She confers on women all the eight types of wealth. Noble women like Savitri, Damayanti, Chandramati and Sumati accomplished mighty tasks only due to the grace of Varalakshmi. Worship of Varalakshmi confers wealth, prosperity and bliss.”
Varalakshmi Vratam is a festival to propitiate Sri Varalakshmi (Mahalakshmi) - the consort of Lord Vishnu, who is the abode of all auspiciousness, prosperity and wealth. The Vratam is performed on the Sravana Sukla Sukra Varam, that is, the Friday immediately following the full moon day (Purnima) in the auspicious month of Sravanam (corresponding to August - September). This Vratam is undertaken by the Sumangalis (whose husbands are still living) for good progeny, good health, and wishing long life for the husbands.
