"Vratham" means "vow". This worship is performed by married Hindu women seeking blessings of the Goddess Mahalakshmi, consort of Lord Vishnu and the deity for wealth and prosperity. Legend says that this vratam was recommended by Lord Shiva to His consort Parvati, helping her to win wealth and prosperity. Another legend tells about a very pious lady Charumati who was asked by Goddess Varalakshmi, in her dream, to do the Vratam to fulfill her wishes.

Upon coming onstage, Bhagawan lit the lamp sanctifying the occasion. Then, a specially designated priest took over, as Bhagawan sat onstage as 'Sai Varalakshmi'. The ritual is followed by distribution of prasad.

In Part II, Ms. Bhagyalakshmi of Chennai presented a beautiful carnatic musical offering.

For more details, see www.sssbpt.org/pages/Prasanthi_Nilayam/varalakshmi2010.html.