Ep. 54: Festivals -Varalakshmi Vratam

Ep. 54: Festivals -Varalakshmi Vratam

Author: Hindu Parenting August 7, 2025 Duration: 1:15:44

In Episode 54 of The Hindu Parenting Podcast, Dr. Arathi Koundinya, Founder of Vibhu Academy speaks to us about the important festival of Varamahalakshmi Vratam, as celebrated in Karnataka and Andhra.

We talk about the importance of vrata in the Sanatana ethos, the difference between a puja and a vrata, the origins of Varamahalakshmi vrata, the rituals, stories and different types of naivedyam offered to goddess Lakshmi.

We also talk about getting children to participate and take a keen interest in celebrating festivals.

Dr. Arathi is a Samskrit scholar, an orator, writer, trainer and counsellor. Her contributions are well known in the fields of Academic research, Softskills Training, Mentoring, Samskrtam, Aesthetics, Indian classical arts & Indological subjects. She has more than 20 years of experience in all these domains and has handled hundreds of Softskills Training programmes and Courses on Samskrtam and Indology for Indian and foreign students. She is also a Lay counselor and a popular resource person with TV and Radio channels and print media. She has travelled within and outside the country as a Trainer and cultural ambassador

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Finding your footing as a parent within a rich cultural tradition can feel both deeply meaningful and surprisingly complex. The Hindu Parenting Podcast sits with you in that space, offering thoughtful conversations that go beyond simple advice. Each episode explores the everyday realities of raising children while consciously nurturing their connection to Hindu values, philosophy, and heritage. You’ll hear from parents, educators, and community members sharing their personal journeys, practical challenges, and small victories. The discussions might cover how to naturally introduce concepts like dharma or seva into family life, navigate festivals and stories in a modern context, or foster a genuine sense of identity and belonging. This isn’t about dogma, but about building a thoughtful, resilient framework for your family. Hosted by Hindu Parenting, the podcast serves as a companion for those wanting to raise informed, grounded children who feel a sense of pride and continuity as part of a living civilization. Tune in for authentic dialogue that acknowledges the questions as much as it seeks answers, all centered on the real-world work of nurturing the next generation.
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