VAIKUNTA EKADASI

Vaikunta Ekadasi is a Hindu festival that is celebrated in the month of Dhanurmasa, usually in December or January. It is considered highly auspicious and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The festival holds great significance in many Hindu communities, and devotees observe fasting, perform special prayers, and visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

WHAT IS EKADASI?

Ekadasi: A Sacred Day in Hindu Lunar Calendar

Ekadasi holds a significant place in the Hindu lunar calendar, occurring twice each month on the eleventh day of both the waxing and waning phases of the moon. This Sanskrit-derived term combines “eka,” meaning “one,” and “dasi,” representing “ten,” marking the eleventh day.

Devout Hindus deeply revere Ekadasi for its spiritual significance, observing it with dedication and religious fervor. It is a day for heightened spiritual activities, including fasting, prayer, and meditation.

Fasting during Ekadasi involves abstaining from grains, beans, and specific vegetables to purify the body and mind. The belief is that this fast cleanses consciousness encourages self-discipline, and fosters a deeper connection with the divine.

During Ekadasi fasting, devotees typically consume fruits, nuts, dairy products, and certain non-grain items. Engaging in prayers and spiritual practices is integral to enhancing spiritual awareness and forging a closer connection with the chosen deity.

Each Ekadasi day is associated with unique legends and stories from Hindu mythology. Beyond being a religious tradition, Ekadasi is viewed as a means to attain spiritual growth and purification.

List of Ekadasi’s
The table below describes the Ekadasi and when they fall in the year.

Vedic lunar month	Krishna paksha ekadasi	Shukla paksha ekadasi	Presiding deity
Chaitra (March–April)	Papavimocani ekadasi	Kamada ekadasi	Rama/Vishnu
Vaisakha (April–May )	Varuthini ekadasi	Mohini ekadasi	Madhusudana (Vishnu)
Jyeshtha (May–June)	Apara ekadasi	Nirjala ekadasi	Trivikrama (Vishnu)
Ashada (June–July)	Yogini ekadasi	Shayani ekadasi	Vamana
Shravana (July–August)	Kamika ekadasi	Shravana Putrada ekadasi	Sridhara
Bhadrapada (August–September)	Annada ekadasi	Parsva ekadasi	Hrishikesha
Ashvina (September–October)	Indra ekadasi	Pasankusa ekadasi	Padmanabha
Kartik (October–November)	Rama ekadasi	Prabodhini ekadasi	Damodara
Margashirsha(Agrahayana) (November–December)	Utpanna ekadasi	Mokshada ekadasi/Vaikuntha ekadasi	Keshava
Pausha (December–January)	Saphala ekadasi	Pausha Putrada ekadasi/Vaikuntha ekadasi	Narayana (Vishnu/Krishna)
Magha (January–February)	Shattila ekadasi	Bhaimi ekadasi / Jaya ekadasi	Madhava
Phalguna (February–March)	Vijaya ekadasi	Amalaki ekadasi	Govinda (Krishna)
Adhika month (once in 2–3 years)	Padmini Vishuddha ekadasi	Parama Shuddha ekadasi	Purushottama

In essence, Ekadasi is a sacred day symbolizing self-discipline, spiritual reflection, and the dedicated pursuit of higher consciousness in the Hindu tradition.

WHAT IS VAIKUNTA EKADASI?

The festival, known as Vaikuntha Ekadasi, is a significant event that is recognized annually. Vaikuntha Ekadasi is a special Ekadasi that is celebrated throughout the month of Margashirsha (December to January) during the fortnight of the waxing moon. This particular Ekadasi is considered to be of great significance.

It is on this day that the gates of Vaikuntha, which is the residence of the Lord Vishnu, are open to those who are devoted to Him. This is an important festival that is observed in all of the temples that are dedicated to Lord Vishnu in South India.

Hindus celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi as a festival and special occasion. Vaishnavas are the main ones who celebrate it because they see it as a special Ekadasi. The event occurs at the same time as Moksada Ekadasi or Putrada Ekadasi.

Vaikunta Ekadasi in the Tamil calendar:

On the Tamil calendar, Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated during the month of Margali, also known as Margazhi Masam. On the Telugu calendar, it is commemorated during the month of Dhanurmasam. Ekadasi is a happy day that is celebrated in honor of Bhagavan Srihari Vishnu. In the traditional Hindu calendar, it happens on the eleventh day of every lunar fortnight.

Vaikunta Ekadasi’s other name is:

Mukkoti Ekadasi is another name for Vaikuntha Ekadasi, while Swargavathil Ekadasi is the name that is used in Kerala to refer to this festival.

Vaikunta Ekadasi in South India:

The Vaishnavites commemorate the Vaikunta Ekadasi more ornately. People who speak Tamil and Telugu are more likely to be concerned about it. The most significant and auspicious acts that take place on this day include fasting, remaining vigilant throughout the night, and traveling through the Vaikunta Dwaram.

Vaikunta Ekadasi is a major festival at Tirupati Balaji Temple, Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, and Bhadrachalam Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple. Apart from these temples, all temples in South India dedicated to Bhagavan Vishnu and his incarnations celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi.

THE ORIGIN OF VAIKUNTA EKADASI:

Three different tales exist in the Puranas that pertain to Vaikunta Ekadasi.

1. End of Asura Murasura:

One of the legends that can be found in the Padma Purana describes the beginning of Vaikunta Ekadasi. Once upon a time, there existed an asura by the name of Murasura who was a source of dread for the devas. This was because of a blessing that he had obtained from Brahma.

To combat the asura, they sought the assistance of Vishnu, who engaged in combat with him but was ultimately unsuccessful in his efforts. He made his way to a cave known as Simhavati, which was located near Badarikashrama. Mursura was pursuing him there.

At that location, Vishnu called upon Yogamaya, a goddess that he had made from his holy force, and she put an end to the asura. Vishnu was happy and gave the goddess the name “Ekadasi” and told her she could forgive everyone’s sins.

According to the Vaishnava tradition, it is believed that anyone who worships Ekadasi and observes a fast on the relevant day will be able to achieve Vaikunta. Therefore, the first Ekadasi, which was a Dhanurmasa Shukla Paksha Ekadasi, came into being as a result.

2. Ambarisha’s Dilemma: A Tale of Fasting, Respect, and Divine Intervention:

Fasting:

A later story says that there was a Vaishnava king of Ayodhya named Ambarisha who always kept his promise to fast for the event. Once, just as he was ready to break his fast for the occasion, the sage Durvasa came to the gates of his city. He had been fasting for three days in preparation for the event. Upon receiving the sage with respect, the king extended an invitation to eat with him.

The sage accepted the offer, but before he could eat, he proceeded to do his ceremonial ablutions. Ambarisha waited for a considerable amount of time, but the sage did not come back, and the period of breaking his fast, which was considered to be momentous, was drawing near.

Respect:

He was confronted with a conundrum: if he did not break his fast before the day was done, the act of his fasting would not bring fruit; nevertheless, if he ate even a single piece of food before Durvasa returned, it was considered to be disrespectful. He decided to merely drink some water, which eventually broke his fast. However, it was hoped that this would not appear to be an insult to the sage.

When Durvasa returned, he was so enraged that he tore a clump of hair out of his head and sent it storming toward the king to assault him. Vishnu’s Sudarshana Chakra stepped in and broke up the clump, which then went after the sage. After fleeing, Durvasa attempted to seek sanctuary with Brahma and Shiva, but both of these gods refused to take him in after his escape.

Divine Intervention:

In the end, Durvasa pleaded with Vishnu himself to save his life, and Vishnu told him that his salvation was in the hands of those who worshipped him. In light of this, Durvasa went to Ambarisha to ask for forgiveness, and he was ultimately saved.

3. Divine Dispensation: Asuras’ Unlikely Blessing:

According to a different version, Vishnu allowed two asuras, who are demons, to enter his abode, Vaikunta, even though they were hostile toward him. They also asked for a blessing: anyone who hears their story and sees the picture of Vishnu coming out of the Vaikunta Dvaram door would also reach Vaikunta. 

SIGNIFICANCE

The most important rite in temples on this day is the opening of the Vaikunta Dwaram or Paramapada Vasal entrance in Vishnu temples. This door is only opened on the day of Vaikunta Ekadasi, and devout individuals are permitted to travel through it during that time. In a symbolic sense, the door leads to Vaikunta, which is the residence of Vishnu.

On this day, all of the gods congregate in Vaikuntam, the Divine and Holy Abode of Lord Vishnu. Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva are the leaders. As a result, this Ekadasi also gets referred to as Vaikunta Ekadasi or Mukkoti Ekadasi (Mukkoti equals three crores).

In this Kali Yuga, even observing one Ekadasi with dispassion, faith, and devotion and keeping the mind entirely focused on Hari, one is liberated from the cycle of birth and death. On this particular subject, the scriptures provide us with their confidence.

FASTING

The practice of fasting during Vaikuntha Ekadashi is an essential component for people who are associated with it. People observe a fast during the entire day and remain vigilant. Japa, which is the chanting of Vishnu’s name, and Dhyana, which is meditation, are two of the activities that devotees engage in when offering special prayers to Vishnu.

It is only permissible for devotees who are participating in the Vaikuntha Ekadashi fast to consume lunch on the day before the observance, which is known as Dashami. It is required of them that they keep a complete fast on Ekadashi the following day and that they pray to Vishnu and meditate on him.

They are not allowed to consume rice under any circumstances. During that particular night, people remain vigilant throughout the entire night and pay a visit to the temple of Vishnu, primarily in the early hours of the morning.

The Shaiva sect observes the day as Trikoti Ekadashi, a religious celebration in which believers believe it is the occasion on which all of the Hindu pantheon’s deities pay reverence to Shiva.

Procedure for Observing Vaikunta Ekadasi Fasting:

Selection of Date: Vaikunta Ekadasi occurs on the 11th day of the lunar fortnight, typically in December or January. Confirm the precise date using a local calendar.

Pre-Fast Preparation: Initiate pre-fasting preparations by opting for a light dinner the night before. Avoid heavy or spicy foods.

Early Awakening: Rise early on the day of Ekadasi, ideally before sunrise.

Purification Routines: Undergo a cleansing ritual, including a shower, and wear clean attire as part of the purification process.

Devotional Practices: Engage in prayers, chants, and readings from sacred texts. Concentrate on Lord Vishnu and seek divine blessings.

Fasting: Abstain from consuming grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some individuals opt for a complete fast, while others may include fruits and milk.

Temple Visit: Attend a Vishnu temple, and if possible, participate in special prayers and rituals organized for Vaikunta Ekadasi.

Meditation: Dedicate time to meditation, contemplating the spiritual significance of the day.

Charitable Acts: Contribute to charitable causes or engage in acts of kindness as a means of giving back.

Breaking the Fast: On Dwadasi (the following day), conclude the fast after the designated time with a simple and tasty meal.

Benefits of Vaikunta Ekadasi Fasting:

Spiritual Purification: Fasting is perceived as a means of purifying the body and mind, facilitating a deeper connection with the divine.

Lord Vishnu’s Blessings: Observing the fast is believed to please Lord Vishnu, with devotees seeking spiritual advancement.

Sin Cleansing: Fasting on Vaikunta Ekadasi is thought to purify individuals of sins and negative karma.

Promotes Self-Discipline: Fasting necessitates self-discipline and control, fostering mental and emotional strength.

Health Benefits: Fasting can positively impact physical health, promoting detoxification and improved digestion.

Enhanced Concentration: Meditation during the fast enhances concentration and focus.

Cultural and Religious Significance: Observing Vaikunta Ekadasi allows participation in cultural and religious traditions.

Community Engagement: Many individuals join together for temple activities and prayers, fostering a sense of community and unity.

Expression of Gratitude: Fasting serves as an expression of gratitude towards the divine and recognition of the importance of spiritual practices.

Soul Cleansing: Devotees believe that the fast purifies the soul, preparing it for a closer relationship with the divine.

VAIKUNTA EKADASI CELEBRATIONS:

Celebrations in India:

All Venkateswara temples are taking part in the festivities that are being held to celebrate the occasion. When it comes to this particular event, Srirangam, which is particularly well-known for the opening of the Svarga Vasal, is considered to be the most important temple. Tirupati, located in the Tirumala Hills, is believed to be the second most important temple since it is the location of the house of Venkateswara, which is widely revered.

Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations in Vishnu Temples:

All 108 Divya Desam celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi. Lord Vishnu is adorned with armor embellished with diamonds, and on the auspicious day of Vaikunta Ekadasi, the northern gate of the temple, regarded as the entrance to ‘Vaikunta,’ remains open. The procession idol, known as ‘Namperumal,’ is ceremoniously paraded through the streets during festivals and subsequently passes through the ‘Paramapada Vasal,’ symbolizing the gateway to heaven.

Partaking in a sacred bath in the ponds of Vishnu temples on both Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi (the following day) is believed to be equivalent to immersing oneself in the holy waters of all the revered rivers and tirthas across the universe.

Tirupati Balaji Temple: The celebrations at the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh are particularly grand. Thousands of devotees gather to witness the opening of the Vaikunta Dwara. Special rituals, prayers, and processions take place.

 

VISIT HERE FOR THE LATEST NEWS ON TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS

Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangam: This temple in Tamil Nadu witnesses elaborate celebrations. The main entrance, known as the Paramapada Vasal, is opened only on Vaikunta Ekadasi. Devotees believe that passing through this entrance washes away their sins.

 

VISIT SRIRSNGAM’S OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO BOOK SEVA TICKETS AND ACCOMIDATION.

ISKCON Temples: International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temples worldwide also celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi with great enthusiasm. Devotees participate in special prayers, kirtans (devotional songs), and lectures.

 

Bhadrachalam:

Bhadrachalam is a town in Telangana’s Khammam district. It is famed for the Bhadrachalam Sri Rama Temple, which is devoted to Lord Rama. While Vaikunta Ekadasi is largely linked with Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama’s devotion is also widespread, and the festival is expected to be celebrated with great zeal at the Bhadrachalam Sri Rama Temple.

 

Mukkoti Ekadashi in Bhadrachalam Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy’s Devasthanam was celebrated in grand style and with tremendous devotion. Bhadradri Devasthanam will host Sri Vaikuntha Ekadashi Samyukta Adhyayam Utsavas, Vilasotsavam, Pagal Patt Rapat Sevaks, Vishwarupa Seva, and other programs. Bhadradri Sri Ramachandra Murthy will give Dash Avatar darshan bhagyam to the devotees as part of the festivities. Devotees will be seen in Matsyavataram, Kurmaavataram, Varahaavataram, Narasimha avatara, Vamanavataram, Parushuramavataram, Sri Ramaavataram (Nijarupa avatara), and Krishna avatara. Similarly, the Sri Thirumangai Alwaru Parampadotsavam and Teppotsavam for Sri Swami in the Godavari River will take place.

On the day of Vaikunta Ekadasi, there will be Vaikuntha Ekadashi Mahotsavam, Uttar Dwara Darshanam, Thiruveedhi Seva, and Rapattu Utsav.

ADVANCE BOOKING TICKETS FOR VAIKUNTA EKADASI AT BHADRACHALAM TEMPLE IS AVAILABLE AT OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Other Temples: Devotees across India visit various Vishnu temples to observe special pujas and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Many temples organize processions and cultural programs and distribute prasadam (sacred food) to the devotees.

Celebrations Worldwide:

Nepal: Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated in Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu and other Vishnu temples across Nepal. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and participate in special prayers.

Sri Lanka: In Sri Lanka, devotees visit prominent Vishnu temples to celebrate Vaikunta Ekadasi. Special pujas, bhajans (devotional songs), and processions are organized.

Mauritius: The Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) lake temple sees significant celebrations. Devotees undertake a pilgrimage to the sacred lake and participate in prayers and rituals.

Things you could do to serve the Lord on the auspicious occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadasi:

1. Seek God’s blessings by going to a Lord Vishnu temple:

During Vaikuntha Ekadasi, you can celebrate by going to a temple of Lord Vishnu or one of His avatars in your area. This is the day that a special entrance called Vaikuntha Dwara is built in most Vishnu temples. People who walk through this dwara on this lucky day are said to reach Vaikuntha.

Even if you can’t go to a temple, you can still honor Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna, or any of His forms (Lord Rama, Lord Narasimha, etc.) at home by decorating the statues and doing a special puja with your family.

2. Do some meditation and say the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra:

Say the Hare Krishna chant a lot on Vaikuntha Ekadasi Day.

“Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare”

In the Kali-Yuga era, chanting the holy names of Lord Krishna was the easiest way to reach spiritual awareness. This is what the scriptures of the Vedas say. The Kali-Santarana Upanishad talks about the Hare Krishna Mahamantra. On top of that, this Upanishad says, “Even after reading all the Vedic literature, the chanting of Hare Krishna is the most sublime form of religion for this time.”
Chanting this phrase cleans our hearts, frees us from all our problems, and leads to spiritual perfection in the end.

3. Learn something new: Read the Bhagavad-gita

It is common for Gita Jayanti to happen in the same month as Vaikuntha Ekadasi. In the Gita Jayanti, Lord Krishna taught Arjuna the most important things about spirituality. Because of this, reading the Bhagavad-gita is one of the best spiritual things to do today.It’s the same as being with Lord Krishna to read the Gita. Spend some time reading the Gita’s lines and thinking about what they mean.

4. Hold a fast Ekadasi:

Try to fast today because it is an Ekadasi day. Not only is fasting good for both our minds and our bodies, it’s also good for our spirits in many ways. There are different levels of fasting, and you can pick the level that works best for you.

5. Do Service: Do seva for Lord Vishnu.

In Bhagavad Gita 2.72, it says, “There is no difference between the kingdom of God and the devotional service of the Lord.”

In this way, serving Lord Vishnu is the same as going into Vaikuntha. Today is a lucky day to visit any Vishnu temple and do the following sevas to ask Sri Srinivasa Govinda to bless you.

Volunteer to do different kinds of sevas, such as handing out food, books, directions to guests, and so on.
You should know what Vaikuntha Ekadasi means and tell your family and friends.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, Vaikunta Ekadasi stands as a profound celebration of devotion and spirituality, uniting Hindus globally in fasting, prayer, and temple festivities. The rich traditions, legends, and rituals associated with this auspicious day create a meaningful tapestry of faith, emphasizing the pursuit of spiritual growth and a deep connection with Lord Vishnu.

Whether observed at the majestic Tirupati Balaji Temple, the revered Srirangam Ranganatha Swamy Temple, or the sacred Bhadrachalam Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Vaikunta Ekadasi resonates as a universal expression of gratitude, self-discipline, and the pursuit of higher consciousness.

As devotees partake in fasting, meditation, and charitable acts, the festival not only cleanses the soul but fosters a sense of community and unity. The global celebrations underscore the cultural and religious significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi, offering believers an opportunity for spiritual reflection, purification, and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

FAQ:

What is special about Vaikunta Ekadasi?

Vaikunta Ekadasi holds a unique significance as it occurs during the month of Margazhi. On this auspicious day, the Vaikunta vaasal (gate) is opened, providing devotees with an uninterrupted darshan of Vishnu.”

Why do we fast on Vaikunta Ekadasi?

Vaikuntha Ekadasi, often observed in January or December, is believed to be the day when Lord Vishnu opens the door to his inner sanctuary. Fasting with unwavering devotion on this day is thought to aid in attaining Moksha. In Kerala, it is also known as Swargavathil Ekadasi.

Is Vaikunta Ekadasi an auspicious day?

Hindu devotees hold the belief that individuals who pass away on Vaikunta Ekadasi attain liberation from the cycle of life and death, reaching heaven, or Vaikuntha. This belief is supported by the tale from the Mahabharata of Lord Bheeshma awaiting his death until Ekadasi.”

Which god is celebrated on Ekadasi?

Ekadasi is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. This day is marked by fasting, prayers, and seeking blessings from the revered deity.”

What is the power of Ekadasi?

Observing Ekadasi with sincerity and devotion is believed to bring blessings from the deities, particularly Lord Vishnu. These divine blessings can lead to spiritual upliftment, guidance, and a sense of protection.

What are the rules for Ekadasi fasting?

During the fasting hours, abstain from consuming food and water. Those unable to observe Nirjala Ekadasi can consume fruit and milk, but the intake of food grains, meat, and fish is strictly prohibited. The fast should commence at sunrise and conclude at sunset.

How many Vaikunta Ekadasi are there in a year?

Vaikuntha Ekadasi is considered one of the most important fasts, equivalent to all 23 Ekadasi in a year. It is typically observed in January or December annually.

How many days will Vaikunta Dwaram be open in Tirumala?

The Tirumala temple plans to keep the Vaikunta Dwaram open for 10 days. Traditionally, it is open to pilgrims only on Vaikunta Ekadasi and Vaikunta Dwadasi, spanning two days each year.

What is special about Vaikunta Ekadasi in Tirumala?

The events on Vaikunta Ekadasi in Tirumala are Swarna Rathosavam,Chakrasnanam,and Vaikunta Dwara Darsanam. Vaikunta Ekadasi is a highly revered annual festival celebrated grandly at Tirumala. It attracts a significant number of devotees to the hill town, marking it as a special and auspicious occasion.

What is Vaikunta Dwara darshan?

During the ‘Vaikunta Dwara’ darshan, temple authorities created a symbolic door using precious materials like silver or gold. This door is opened for a limited time, allowing devotees to pass through. It is a moment of profound devotion and spiritual significance for pilgrims.

What is inside Vaikunta Dwaram in Tirumala?

Vaikunta Dwaram, situated on the left side of the Main Shrine and facing east, is opened only on Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi—two days a year. Nowadays it is open for 10 days starting from Ekadasi day. Unlike other entrances, it lacks elaborate decorations and a special gopuram.”

What is ‘Pagal 10 Raa 10’?

The twenty-one-day festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi, occurring in November–December every year. The first ten days, known as Pagal Pathu, are followed by the second half, referred to as ‘Raa Pathu.'”

When should I start fasting for Vaikunta Ekadasi?

On ‘Dashami,’ the day before Vaikunta Ekadasi, devotees undertaking the fast should have only lunch. On Ekadashi, the following day, a complete fast is observed, accompanied by prayers and meditation on Vishnu. Rice consumption is strictly prohibited.

When should I break my Ekadasi fast?

The Ekadasi fast is traditionally concluded during a specific period known as Parana. This time for breaking the fast occurs after sunrise on Dwadashi Tithi. Dwadashi Tithi is the twelfth day in the lunar calendar. Devotees observe this practice as a way to align with the prescribed spiritual discipline associated with Ekadasi fasting. Breaking the fast during Parana, particularly after sunrise on Dwadashi Tithi, holds significance in the ritualistic observance of Ekadasi. Individuals are to conclude their period of fasting according to traditional guidelines.

ALSO READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE:

SWAYAM VYAKTA KSHETRAS OF LORD VISHNU TEMPLES IN INDIA

ISKCON TEMPLES-THE HARE KRISHNA MOVEMENT

FAMOUS SRI RAMA TEMPLES IN INDIA :10 MUST VISIT TEMPLES

TIRUPATI BALAJI TEMPLE FACTS: MUST KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT

TIRUMALA TEMPLE HISTORY: THE AMAZING STORY OF LORD MAHA VISHNU