In the Hindu months of July and August, the Vara Mahalakshmi fast is typically performed on the second Friday or the Friday before the full moon day. Rangoli, floral garlands, and traditional themes adorn homes and the Pooja space. Decorations often consist of marigold flowers and mango leaves. Women begin cleaning and decorating their homes well in advance of the celebration. In addition, they set aside a specific location for the Pooja, which primarily entails the adoration of Goddess Mahalakshmi. With great devotion, women do the pooja and present the goddess with unique meals, flowers, and fruits along with prayers. A unique Maha Mangalarati is conducted following the puja. This entails singing bhajans and hymns while waving a plate in front of the deity that has a lit lamp on it.
Specialty of Festival:
The festival is celebrated with the hope that Goddess Mahalakshmi will bestow prosperity, wealth and happiness upon her devotees. Married women observe the Vara Mahalakshmi fast in hopes of extending their husbands lives and ensuring their families wealth. Community celebrations take place during the holiday. Women gather to share food, perform the pooja as a group and exchange blessings. On this day some devotees fast, breaking it after the pooja. In addition to being a religious holiday Vara Mahalakshmi is a cultural custom that fortifies links throughout the community and within families.
Month of Festival:
July/ August.
