Eat, pray (for) love in Thailand

Tried the apps, deleted the apps, waited to naturally meet the one only to download the apps again? Time to give Cupid some very Asian-style backup.

Observed once a year on the Friday before the full moon of the Hindu lunar calendar, falling on August 28 this year, Varalakshmi Vratam is considered an especially auspicious day for people seeking love and fortune.  

Goddess Lakshmi is at the centre of it all, in her blessing-giving form that is believed to be particularly receptive to prayers that day – making it a good time to ask for a little extra luck in love.

Here are a few tips from Bangkok locals who say they found love after giving it a try:

Dress code: Wear pink or red, colours traditionally associated with Goddess Lakshmi and believed to be her favourites.

Offerings to bring: Worship with nine incense sticks, pink lotus flowers, sugarcane juice, water, milk, five kinds of fruits and various aromatic substances. 

What to avoid: Avoid offering meat or eggs.

The most important part when praying:

1. Give her the basics. State your first and last name and date of birth. After all, there are plenty of prayers to keep track of.
2. Get specific. From personality traits, lifestyle to the little things that matter, like someone who actually puts the toilet seat down.
3. Set a deadline. Give the goddess a timeframe so she knows you mean this year, not sometime in the next decade.

Not in Bangkok? These days, even praying has gone digital. Join online or have the ritual performed on your behalf.

Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Because really, what’s one more prayer compared to another swipe?

August 28, 2026. Gaysorn Village (4th floor), Ratchaprasong