Rambha, one of the celestial dancers (Apsaras) of Devaloka, became even more beautiful and prosperous after receiving the blessings of the Divine Mother. Moved by Rambha’s sincere devotion, the Goddess declared, “The day you observed this fast shall henceforth be celebrated as Rambha Tritiya by women.” Thus, the tradition was born.
Rambha Tritiya is observed on the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) of the Tritiya (third lunar day) in the Tamil months of Vaikasi and Karthigai. Our ancestors believed that worship on this day enhances not only beauty and wealth but also brings good health and prosperity. But how did this observance originate, and how can it be followed at home?
The Origin of Rambha Tritiya
According to the puranic lore, Rambha, Urvashi, and Menaka—all celestial dancers—once had a debate about who among them was the most beautiful and talented in dance. To settle the matter, they approached Indra, king of the gods, who agreed to judge their dance performance.
As the dance competition began in Devasabha, each Apsara performed excellently. However, Rambha, in her eagerness to attract Indra’s attention, danced with great force and intensity, which led to a loss of grace. Her forehead ornament and moon-shaped jewel fell, causing Urvashi and Menaka to laugh. Embarrassed, Rambha withdrew from the venue.
Art should be pursued with full focus and without letting negative emotions like jealousy and anger cloud the mind. Because Rambha allowed envy to enter her heart, Goddess Saraswati (patroness of the arts) withdrew her blessings. Rambha lost both her beauty and talent.
Distressed, Rambha sought Indra’s guidance on regaining her charm and skills. Indra told her that Goddess Parvati had incarnated on Earth as Gauri and was performing penance under a mango tree. If Rambha worshipped her with sincere devotion, she would be blessed.
Following his advice, Rambha came to Earth and found Goddess Gauri at Thirupainjeeli. She assisted the Goddess in her penance and also made a small idol of the Goddess using turmeric, performed rituals, and observed the fast.
Pleased by her devotion, Goddess Gauri appeared before Rambha in a golden form the next day and granted her enhanced beauty and immense wealth. She blessed her, saying, “Let this day be celebrated in your name as Rambha Tritiya by women.” From then on, it became a ritual observed twice a year.
How to Observe Rambha Tritiya at Home
Similar to the Varalakshmi Vratam, one can set up a small mandapam (altar), tie banana stems, and place a pot (kalash) for worship. Create an image of the Goddess with turmeric, invite her presence through invocation, and offer flowers and sacred rice (akshata). Chant the 108 names (Ashtothram) of Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, and offer jaggery-based sweets as prasadam.
This observance is said to bring love and harmony in the household. Women with Venus-related doshas (afflictions) in their horoscope or those desiring marriage are especially encouraged to perform this puja. Visiting a temple dedicated to the Goddess on this day enhances blessings.
