Sravana Mangala Gowri Vratham

 

Sravana masam is known for "Sravana Mangalavara vratham"or "Mangala Gowri Nomu". It is done for prosperity of marriage and well-being of family. This is performed by newly wed women after marriage in Sravana masam.

This is observed on every Tuesday in Sravana masam each year for 5 years before the Mahalaya Paksha begins. Women perform puja and worship Goddess Mangala Gowri and seek blessings from husband and elders of the family. If she is performing it for the first time, mother or mother in law usually accompanies her. The first "Vayanam" is usually given to the mother. If for any reason, there is disruption for 1 to 2 weeks , alternatives have been described.

It is mandatory to invite atleast 5 sumangali women and give them vayanams. In some places, they usually give 5 vayanams in one year, followed by 10 in the second year and so on and eventually 25 in the last year (5th year).

Vayanam constitutes betel leaves, areca nut, bananas and turmeric and kumkum (vermillion).

The betel leaves and areca nut are the basic ingredients of "paan". There was a scientific rationale to it. In the chaturmaas period, there are frequent rains and people often have cold and cough.

Banana helps in production of mucus via histamine. Betel leaves have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, healing properties, aids in digestion, removes cough and are useful even in asthmatics. Areca nut increases salivation and also acts a cough expectorant.

However, frequent intake of this combination led to many oral and digestive problems and even oral precancerous conditions. Thus moderation is the key. 

As a person of 21st century, it's important to know, understand and follow our cultural & traditional practices by knowing the scientific and spiritual basis behind them.