Payo Vratham is a vow dedicated to Sri Vishnu especially observed in some parts of Andhra Pradesh in South India during Phalguna Masam. Payo Vratham is observed for 12 days, starting at Phalguna Shukla Padyami and ending at Phalguna Shukla Dwadashi. It is mentioned in the Shri Bhagavatham. During these days, Sri Vishnu is worshiped along with Goddess Lakshmi Devi. Goksheeram is offered as Naivedyam. It is observed by married couples.
In 2022, Payo Vratham begins on 3rd March and ends on 15th March.
Lord Vishnu is offered Ksheerannam or the rice boiled in milk during the Vratam. It is believed that by observing the vratam, Aditi Devi has got Lord Vamana as her son. Go Daanam (donating cow), Dhanya daanam, and vasthra daanam are highly meritorious deeds to perform in Falguna masam.
In Sanskrit payo means milk. According to the Bhagavata Purana, Maa Adithi observes this Vrat conciliate Sri Vishnu. As a result of this, she had Vamana as a son.
It is like observing Ekadasi Vrat. On the last day, Homam is led by the priest. Donations like clothes, money is given to Brahmins.
