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Ekadasi is a Sanskrit word for number 11. It means the 11th day of each half of the month in the Vedic lunar calendar. So there are two Ekadasi days in each month of the Vedic calendar. One is in the first half of the month whilst the moon is waxing, or growing. This is known as the bright fortnight. The second is in the second half of the month whilst the moon is waning, or shrinking. This is known as the dark fortnight.
Significance of Vaikunta Ekadashi
Vaikunda Ekadesi is of great significance at the Tirupati Balaji Temple, Srirangam Sri Ranganatha Temple and at the Bhadrachalam Temple. In Kerala, it is known as Swarga Vathil Ekadashi.
The significance of this auspicious day can be traced to the Padma Purana which says that Lord Vishnu took the form of Ekadasi, female energy, to kill Muran, a demon. All this took place during the month of Margazhi, the last half and the first half of December-January. Impressed by the goddess, the Lord declares that whoever worships him on this day will reach Vaikunta or heaven.
Get Rid Of Malicious Karma on Vaikunta Ekadashi
Devotees must fast and observe a strict vigil the whole night. They can even indulge in meditation, utter mantras and sing verses praising the Lord. Pulses and cereals are avoided on this day. It is very propitious to visit Vishnu temples at the perfect time when the gates of Vaikunta are opened. This is symbolic gesture which means God has opened his doors to heaven for his admirers. The day provides an opportunity for purifying one’s soul by removing all the bad Karma and kick start a new life afresh.
Vaikunta Ekadashi Rituals Give Prosperity & Remove Sins
The Vishnu Purana says that there are 24 Ekadashis in a year and observing fast on Vaikunta Ekadashi is equal to observing fast on all other 23 Ekadashis of the year. People must avoid eating rice on the day, but consume fruits and milk as part of the fasting. Taking part in rituals, singing the praise of the lord, chanting Vishnu Sahasranama and Vishnu Gayathri are the main highlights of the day but opening of ‘swarga vassal’ or gateway of heaven is the most significant. All Vishnu temples organise the event and when one enters the gateway all sins are abolished thereby making one resplendent and glorious. It also gives an opportunity to experience prosperity and victory in all matters of life.
Auspicious Rituals for Vaikunta Ekadashi 2017
• Narayana Kavacha Homam
• Dwarapalaka Puja
• Moksha Lakshmi Puja
• Sudarshana Chakra Puja
• Veeraraghava Swamy Temple Pooja
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