In the southern parts of India, it is customary to worship Goddess Lakshmi during the auspicious month of Sawan. In fact, in many households, Varalakshmi Vrat (fast) is observed during this time. It is believed that observing this fast in Sawan month can bring wealth, prosperity, happiness and peace. A priest of Santoshi Mata Temple in Karimnagar, Telangana, Ram Sharma in an interview with Local18 shared that observing the fast of Goddess Varalakshmi during Sawan will please the Goddess. He further advised devotees who want to observe fast should clean their house thoroughly. There is also a tradition of hanging mango leaves at the entrance of the house along with garlands of flowers. The fast will be observed on August 16.
Ram Sharma further added that the house should be decked up with electric lights or oil lamps. The mandap where the puja rituals will be performed should be cleaned and decorated. Devotees can make rangoli with rice flour and hang mango leaves as a part of decoration. For the puja ritual, a Kalash made of gold, silver or copper needs to be decorated and placed on a plate filled with rice. He further suggested keeping lemons, betel leaves and coins should be kept in the rice and adorned with mango leaves. Coconut with turmeric tika should be placed on the Kalash. The idol or photo of the goddess should then be placed and decorated with red cloth, jewellery and flowers. One should make sure to light a diya.
As per the pandit of Santoshi Mata Temple, after offering naivedyam (food offering) to the Goddess, the puja should begin. Devotees must perform the puja with utmost devotion and also consult other priests and pandits to perform it as per their religious guidance. Worshipping the Goddess would drive poverty and bring wealth, prosperity and health. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi will bless you and your family. During the month of Sawan, the priest urges devotees to avoid meat and alcohol since the rains during this time can cause diseases in chickens and goats.
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