Purattasi Viratham – an Introduction

The Vrat or Viratham observed by the devotees during the Tamil month of Purattasi (mid-September – mid-October) is known as Purattasi Viratham. This is a highly popular and widely observed austerity, performed during that month, and is dedicated principally to Lord Srinivasa or Venkateswara, the celebrated form of Lord Vishnu, who is enshrined in his famous abode atop the Tirupati hills.    

Purattasi Month

Purattasi is a sacred month which holds tremendous significance in the worship of Lord Vishnu, and especially his Avatar Srinivasa, who is also known as Venkateswara or Balaji. As per legends, once, Vishnu’s consort Goddess Lakshmi got offended by the disrespect shown to her by a sage and left their abode of Vaikuntam and headed towards the earth. The Lord unable to stand his separation from his very dear spouse also followed her and descended on the Tirumala-Tirupati hills as Srinivasa. It is believed that this episode took place only in the month of Purattasi, and hence this month is regarded as the period of his incarnation and is dedicated entirely to his worship.