Varalakshmi Vrat Katha, Varalakshmi Vratham Katha in English
Varalakshmi Vratam is a revered ritual observed by married women in South India and Maharashtra. On this day, pujas and prayers are dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. There are several popular tales linked to Varalakshmi Vratham, with the stories of Charumati and Shyamabala being the most significant.
Story of Charumati and Varamahalakshmi
In the tale of Charumati and Varamahalakshmi, as recounted in the Skanda Purana, Goddess Parvati inquires Lord Shiva about a vrata that would be advantageous for women. Lord Shiva describes the Varalakshmi Vrata as the most beneficial for them.
To emphasize the vrata's significance, Lord Shiva tells the story of Charumati. Goddess Lakshmi, impressed by Charumati's dedication to her husband and family, visits her in a dream and instructs her to observe the Varalakshmi Vratha, detailing the procedures.
Charumati, a devout woman, gathers her neighbors, friends, and relatives to conduct the Varalakshmi puja as instructed by Goddess Lakshmi. Following the puja, everyone who participated was endowed with wealth and prosperity.
Story of Shyamabala and Varalakshmi Vrata
The story of Shyamabala and the Varalakshmi Vrata is another tale associated with the Varamahalakshmi festival. King Bathrasiravas and Queen Surachandrika were blessed with a daughter, Shyamabala, who was wed to a prince from a neighboring realm.
Once, while visiting her parents' palace, Shyamabala witnessed her mother, Queen Surachandrika, shooing away an elderly woman. This woman had suggested that the Queen perform the Varalakshmi Puja, but the Queen, disliking advice from a beggar on religious matters, dismissed her.
Shyamabala, compassionate by nature, welcomed the old woman and learned about the significance of the Varalakshmi Vrata. Upon returning to her own kingdom, she observed the Vrata as instructed. Consequently, her kingdom flourished, and the prince received accolades for his excellent leadership.
Meanwhile, Shyamabala's parents endured great hardships, and calamity befell their kingdom. They lost their wealth, and discontent grew among their people.
When Shyamabala learned of her parents' plight, she sent them pots filled with gold. However, as soon as Queen Surachandrika laid eyes on them, they turned to ashes.
Realizing the misfortunes were due to her mother's dismissal of the old woman—who was none other than Goddess Lakshmi in disguise—Shyamabala urged her mother to seek forgiveness and perform the Varalakshmi Vrata. The Queen complied, and their kingdom was restored to its former splendor.
Curse of Chitranemi
Another tale from Hindu scriptures narrates the origins of Varalakshmi Vratha as linked to a dice game between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Goddess Parvati, who was on a winning streak, was accused of cheating by Lord Shiva. To resolve the dispute, they appointed Chitranemi, a gana of Shiva, as the umpire.
Chitranemi's decision favored Lord Shiva, which incensed Goddess Parvati, leading her to curse him with leprosy. Lord Shiva pleaded for Chitranemi's forgiveness, and Goddess Parvati consented to lift the curse provided Chitranemi observed the Varalakshmi Vratha performed by devout women. This event marked the commencement of the Varalakshmi Vratha tradition.
