Varuthini Ekadashi is one of the most auspicious and spiritually enriching days in the Hindu calendar. Falling during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) of the Vaishakha month, this Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, particularly to his Vamana avatar. It is believed that by observing the Varuthini Ekadashi vrat (fast), devotees gain protection from evil influences, receive divine blessings, and move closer to liberation (moksha). In 2025, this sacred day offers an opportunity for deep devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual reflection.
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Varuthini Ekadashi 2025 Date and Timings
- Ekadashi Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 4:43 PM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 2:32 PM
- Parana (Fast Breaking) Time: Friday, April 25, 2025, from 5:46 AM to 8:23 AM
- Dwadashi Ends: Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:44 AM
Note: These timings may vary based on local Panchang. Always consult a trusted source or calendar for precise muhurat.
Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi
The word “Varuthini” means “armored” or “protected.” As per Hindu scriptures, observing Varuthini Ekadashi grants divine protection from evil and adversity. This day is highly praised in the Bhavishya Purana, where Lord Krishna narrates the glory of Varuthini Ekadashi to Yudhishthira.
According to legend, King Mandata, a righteous and powerful ruler, was able to overcome a curse and regain his spiritual power by observing this vrat. Similarly, King Dhundhumara was liberated from a severe curse through this observance. This Ekadashi is believed to offer not only worldly benefits such as good fortune and prosperity but also spiritual rewards such as liberation from sins and cycles of rebirth.
What is the Meaning of Varuthini Ekadashi?
Varuthini Ekadashi reflects the spiritual armor that devotees can achieve through a disciplined life of devotion, charity, and abstinence. The fast not only helps in physical detoxification but also in the cleansing of one’s karmas. The key principles embedded in this vrat are self-control, humility, and generosity.
The day encourages detachment from materialistic pleasures and focuses on inner purification. Devotees are advised to avoid all forms of negativity, including harsh speech, deceit, anger, and indulgence. Instead, one must engage in prayer, chanting, and charitable acts.
Customs and Traditions of Varuthini Ekadashi
Here are the main customs and traditions observed on Varuthini Ekadashi:
- Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast, avoiding grains, pulses, and tamasic food. Some follow Nirjala Vrat (without water), while others do Phalahar (fruits and vrat-friendly food).
- Charity and Daan: Donating food, clothes, money, and other essentials to the poor and needy is encouraged.
- Puja and Vishnu Worship: Devotees perform puja of Lord Vishnu or his Vamana form with tulsi leaves, lamps, flowers, and incense.
- Night Vigil: Observing jagaran (staying awake at night) and engaging in devotional songs and stories enhances spiritual merit.
- Avoidance of Harmful Activities: Activities like lying, gossiping, theft, and violence are to be completely avoided.
What to Eat on Varuthini Ekadashi?
On Varuthini Ekadashi, eating sattvic and vrat-friendly food is essential. Here are some suitable options:
- Fruits: Banana, apple, papaya, pomegranate
- Root Vegetables: Potato, sweet potato, arbi
- Grain Substitutes: Singhara atta (water chestnut flour), Kuttu atta (buckwheat flour)
- Snacks: Sabudana khichdi, roasted peanuts, coconut
- Sweets: Lauki halwa, sabudana kheer, til laddoo
Avoid rice, wheat, onion, garlic, and any form of non-vegetarian food.
Rituals to Observe on Varuthini Ekadashi
Morning Rituals
- Wake up early and take a bath, preferably with sesame-infused water.
- Wear clean clothes and prepare an altar for worship.
- Offer yellow flowers, tulsi leaves, fruits, and incense to Lord Vishnu.
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or other devotional hymns.
Daytime Activities
- Engage in reading or listening to the Varuthini Ekadashi Katha.
- Donate essentials like food, clothes, ghee, or sesame seeds.
- Practice silence (maun vrat) and meditate if possible.
Evening Rituals
- Light a diya with ghee and perform aarti.
- Chant bhajans and mantras in praise of Lord Vishnu.
- Reflect on one’s actions and intentions.
Parana (Breaking the Fast)
- The fast is broken on the next day during the Dwadashi tithi.
- Begin with a light meal consisting of vrat-friendly items.
- Express gratitude through prayer before breaking the fast.
Benefits of Observing Varuthini Ekadashi
- Spiritual Growth: Cleanses the mind, body, and soul.
- Divine Protection: Shields from misfortunes and evil energies.
- Moksha: Helps in attaining liberation and overcoming past karmas.
- Health Benefits: Fasting detoxifies the body and promotes well-being.
- Social Impact: Charity strengthens community values and empathy.
The Story of King Mandata and King Dhundhumara
King Mandata, despite being virtuous, once faced a severe curse that led to loss and misery. On the advice of sages, he observed the Varuthini Ekadashi fast with devotion and regained his glory.
Similarly, King Dhundhumara was once cursed by Lord Shiva, turning him into a ghost. Upon observing this vrat with pure devotion and charity, he was released from the curse and attained salvation.
These stories from the scriptures underscore the transformative power of this sacred day.
Mantras and Prayers
Here are some powerful mantras to chant on this day:
- ओं नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय Meaning: I bow to Lord Vasudeva (Vishnu)
- श्री विष्णु सहस्रनाम स्तोत्रम् Vishnu Sahasranama – Chanting the 1000 names of Vishnu for divine grace
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can everyone observe Varuthini Ekadashi?
A: Yes, anyone regardless of age or gender can observe the vrat, though pregnant women, elderly, or those with health issues may do a partial fast.
Q2: Is water allowed during the fast?
A: Those observing Nirjala fast avoid water. However, others may drink water and eat permitted vrat items.
Q3: What if someone cannot fast the whole day?
A: Partial fasting or engaging in prayers, charity, and spiritual reading also holds merit.
Q4: Can I sleep during the night on Ekadashi?
A: While night vigil (jagran) is preferred, it’s not mandatory. Bhajan and reflection during evening hours are beneficial.
Conclusion
Varuthini Ekadashi is not just about abstaining from food—it’s about embracing a life of virtue, humility, and devotion. By observing this sacred vrat with sincerity and mindfulness, devotees invite divine protection, mental clarity, and spiritual blessings.
In a world filled with chaos and distractions, festivals like Varuthini Ekadashi remind us to pause, reflect, and reconnect with our higher selves. Whether through fasting, prayer, or acts of kindness, let this Ekadashi illuminate your path toward peace, prosperity, and purpose.
May Lord Vishnu bless you and your family on the sacred occasion of Varuthini Ekadashi 2025.