Varuthini Ekadashi: Tithi, Significance and Rituals
Ekadashi is an extremely holy period in Hinduism. Ekadashis that come on Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha are both important. It is a period for us to connect with the almighty again and do some soul-searching. One of the most important Ekadashi is the Varunthini Ekadashi.
Here, we will tell you about that.
About Varuthini Ekadashi 2024
Varunthini Ekadashi comes on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha of the Vaishaka (April or May). Varunthini Ekadashi is also called the Varunthini Shukla Ekadashi.
On this day, Bhagwan Vishnu took the form of Apsara Varunthini to lure the Asurs and take Amrit Kalash away from them.
The date of Varunthini Ekadashi 2024 is as follows:.
Varuthini Ekadashi 2024 Tithi
- Varunthini Ekadashi – Saturday, May 4, 2024
- Parana Time – 06:05 AM to 08:35 AM
- Beginning of the Ekadashi – May 3, 11.24 PM
- Ending of the Ekadashi – May 4, 08:38 PM
Varuthini Ekadashi Significance
Observing Varunthini Ekadashi fast is considered extremely auspicious. It helps one get rid of all his sins. It also removes the illusions of Maya from the natives.
Bhagwan Shri Ram observed this Ekadashi when Rishi Vasishtha told him about it. As per Bhavishya Purana, Shri Krishna explained the importance of it to Dharmaraj Yudhishthir and said to him that observing Varunthini Ekadashi is even greater than seeing Shri Krishna himself. And those who observe it will get into the Vaikuntha.
Story Behind Varunthini Ekadashi
The kingdom of Bhadravati was ruled by Chandravanshi King Dyutiman. He was both religious and wise. A wealthy merchant named Dhanapala also used to live in Bharadvati. He was a bhakta of Bhagwan Vishnu. The merchant had 5 sons: Sumana, Sadbuddi, Medhavi, Sukriti, and Drishthabuddhi.
His son, Drishthabuddhi, was involved in all sorts of sinful acts, from prostitution to gambling and was wasting his father’s wealth. Angered, his father expelled him from the house. But, soon, Drishthabuddhi finds himself with no money. So, he started stealing things. When he got caught by the guards of the king, he was also expelled from the kingdom itself. He started roaming desperately in the forest, killing and eating animals.
Once, during the time of Vaisakh, he reached Rishi Kaundinya Muni. The rishi took a bath in Ganga and was coming back when some droplets fell on Drishthabuddhi. And as a result, Drishthabuddhi came back to his wisdom. He bowed down to Rishi and asked him what he should do to get rid of all his sins. On that, the rishi advised him to observe Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat.
Drishthabuddhi did what he was told and got rid of all his sins. And he was also given a place in the Vaikund.
This story was narrated by Shri Krishna to Yudhishthir.
Rituals To Be Followed on the Varunthini Ekadashi
The rituals to be followed on the Varunthini Ekadashi are told by Shri Krishna to Yudhishthir. They are as follows:
- A day before Varunthini Ekadashi, i.e., on the 10th day of the Krishna Paksha, the devotee should clean his teeth in the noon and have supper in the evening.
- On the morning of the Ekadashi itself, devotees should take the sankalp to observe the vrat. He should take a bath in a river or lake.
- Worship Shri Krishna and offer him bhog and flowers.
- Chant mantra for Bhagwan Vishnu.
- During the night, stay awake. And, if possible, play a musical instrument to please the Bhagwan.
- The next day, give charity to Brahmanas and ask them for forgiveness.
- Devotees should offer flowers and water
Varunthini Ekadashi Vrat Rules
Pay special attention to the following aspects of the vrat:
- On Ekadashi, it is advised not to consume beans and grains.
- Devotees should refrain from hurting any animals on this day.
- Sleeping during the day on Ekadashi is not allowed.
- Those observing the fast should avoid meeting or interacting with dishonest or fraudulent individuals.
- If, by chance, they come into contact with such people, purification is recommended by standing under the sun and looking directly at it.
- Also, one should avoid getting involved in sexual activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is special about Varuthini Ekadashi?
A: On this day, Bhagwan Vishnu took the roop of an Apsara, Varunthini, to lure the Asurs and take the Amrit Kalash away from them.
Q: What not to eat on Varuthini Ekadashi?
A: On Varuthini Ekadashi, it is advised not to consume beans and grains.
Q: Which Ekadashi Vrati is most powerful?
A: Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat is considered one of the most powerful Ekadashi Vrats.
Q: On which Ekadashi day does Bhagwan Vishnu wake up?
A: Bhagwan Vishnu wakes up on the Dev Uthni Ekadashi.
Q: Who is the god of Ekadashi?
A: Ekadashi is specially dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu.
