Varamahalakshmi Pooja: A North Indian's Journey into a South Indian Tradition

Why I’m Sharing This:

Growing up in North India, I was always surrounded by festivals and traditions that felt like second nature to me. However, moving to Bangalore introduced me to an entirely new world of cultural experiences. One that truly touched my heart was Vara Mahalakshmi Pooja. This is a deeply personal story of how I connected with this beautiful South Indian tradition and what it meant to me.

A Warm Invitation from Friends

It was a Friday during the Shravan month—a day that, back in North India, would typically be filled with the sights and sounds of monsoon rains. Here in Bangalore, though, my South Indian friends were preparing for Vara Mahalakshmi Pooja—a festival I had heard about but never fully understood. When one of my friends invited me to join them, I felt a blend of curiosity and excitement. Little did I know, this experience would leave a lasting impression on me.

Walking into a Divine Ambiance

As I stepped into my friend's home, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant atmosphere. The entrance was graced with a stunning rangoli, crafted with such intricate patterns and vibrant colors that it felt like a work of art. I’d always admired rangolis from afar, but seeing one so beautifully made right before me was something else entirely.

Inside, the air was filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers and the soothing scent of incense. Soft devotional music played in the background, creating a calming ambiance that instantly made me feel at peace. My eyes were drawn to the altar, where the idol of Goddess Lakshmi was adorned with the finest silk sarees, shimmering jewelry, and fresh flowers. The careful attention to detail in every aspect of the decoration—from the arrangement of the offerings to the positioning of the idol—was awe-inspiring. It was clear that this space was filled with love, devotion, and a deep sense of reverence.

Experiencing the Rituals Firsthand

My friend noticed my curiosity and took the time to explain each ritual as it happened. She talked about the significance of the offerings, the symbolism behind the kalash, and the meaning of the mantras being chanted. As I listened, I found myself becoming more and more immersed in the experience.

Then came a moment I’ll never forget—my friend invited me to take part in the haldi kumkum ritual. This was something completely new to me. She handed me coconut, fruits, a piece of cloth, beautiful bangles, and a small packet of kumkum. She gently guided me through the ritual of applying the kumkum to my forehead. As I did so, I felt a profound sense of belonging. This simple act of sharing, which involved exchanging haldi and kumkum among the women, felt incredibly special. It wasn’t just a ritual; it was a gesture of community and inclusion, one that made me feel truly welcomed into their circle.

Reflecting on the Beauty Around Me

After participating in the exchange, I took a moment to fully appreciate the beauty around me. The intricate decorations, the carefully placed offerings, and the vibrant energy of the pooja left me feeling deeply moved. The entire setting was a visual and sensory feast that resonated with the essence of the festival—one that celebrated prosperity, love, and the bonds that unite us.

Reflecting on a Blessed Day

As I left my friend’s home that day, I carried with me a deep sense of contentment and joy. The experience of Vara Mahalakshmi Pooja had opened my heart to the rich cultural diversity of India in a way I hadn’t fully appreciated before. It reminded me that, despite the differences in our traditions, the underlying values of love, devotion, and community are universal.

Why This Experience Matters to Me:

Participating in Vara Mahalakshmi Pooja has become one of my most cherished memories since moving to Bangalore. It’s a day that I look forward to reliving each year, not just for the rituals but for the sense of connection it brings—both to the city I now call home and to the friends who have become like family. Sharing this experience feels important to me because it’s a reminder of how embracing new traditions can enrich our lives in unexpected ways.

So, if you ever have the opportunity to experience a festival outside of your own culture, I encourage you to say yes. You might just discover, as I did, that these moments have the power to bring unexpected joy and a sense of belonging that stays with you long after the celebrations have ended.