### Varalakshmi Vratham Naivedyam Recipes – Unique Andhra Vantalu to Present to Goddess Lakshmi
Varalakshmi Vratam, observed on the second Friday of Sravana Masam, is an important festival primarily celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. This year, it is on August 28, 2015. The event honors Goddess Lakshmi, who symbolizes wealth, power, beauty, and auspiciousness, and features intricate rituals, home decorations, and special culinary creations.
#### Importance of Varalakshmi Vratam
This festival serves as an occasion for women to pray for their families’ prosperity and receive blessings from Goddess Lakshmi. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and beautified with flowers, and the goddess is adorned in exquisite silks and gold ornaments. The pooja room transforms into a center of devotion where naivedyam offerings are made.
#### Naivedyam for Varalakshmi Vratam
Creating the appropriate naivedyam is vital for the festivities. Here is a collection of special Andhra vantalu (dishes) that can be presented to Goddess Lakshmi:
1. **Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)**
An enticing rice preparation featuring tamarind, spices, and peanuts, pulihora is a quintessential festival offering.
2. **Lemon Rice**
A zesty rice dish infused with lemon juice, turmeric, and topped with nuts and curry leaves.
3. **Chakkara Pongali (Sweet Rice)**
A sugary dish created with rice, jaggery, and ghee, usually flavored with cardamom and decorated with cashews and raisins.
4. **Kobbari Laddoo (Coconut Ladoo)**
These sweet treats made from shredded coconut and jaggery are a much-loved festive delicacy.
5. **Bisi Bele Bath**
A nourishing dish consisting of rice, lentils, and assorted vegetables, seasoned with a unique spice blend.
6. **Curd Rice**
A cooling dish made with rice and yogurt, commonly served as a complement during festive feasts.
7. **Pesarattu (Green Gram Pancakes)**
These savory pancakes made from green gram are both nutritious and delightful, ideal for breakfast or as a snack.
8. **Sundal (Spiced Legumes)**
A wholesome snack prepared from boiled legumes, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut.
9. **Rava Kesari (Semolina Halwa)**
A sweet delicacy made from semolina, sugar, and ghee, often tinted with saffron or food coloring.
10. **Vegetable Sambar**
A lentil-based vegetable stew seasoned with tamarind and a unique sambar powder, served with rice.
#### Conclusion
As you get ready for Varalakshmi Vratam, think about these traditional Andhra recipes to present to Goddess Lakshmi. Each dish not only reflects culinary tradition but also captures the essence of devotion and gratitude. May your festivities be imbued with joy and blessings from the goddess.