Varuthini Ekadashi 2024: History, significance, rituals, date and time of the festival
Vishnu preserves, Brahma creates, Shiva destroys in Hindu trinity.
Vaishakha Ekadashi is a fast among Hindu devotees, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s believed that observing this fast can shield one from negativity and evil. Varuthini Ekadashi 2024 is celebrated worldwide by Hindu communities, focusing on worshiping Lord Vishnu through various religious and spiritual activities, with strict fasting being a key aspect.
Throughout the year, there are a total of 24 Ekadashi observances. In the months of Vaishakha or Chaitra, one such observance, known as Varuthini Ekadashi, takes place. It aligns with the Vaishakha month according to the Purnimanta calendar.
Varuthini Ekadashi Significance
Ekadashi holds profound religious importance in Hindu culture, symbolizing a period of dedicated worship and devotion to Lord Vishnu. During this time, adherents uphold strict fasting rituals and immerse themselves in spiritual practices like dhyan yoga and meditation. Varuthini Ekadashi is celebrated in various ways, including acts of charity such as donating funds to honor the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu, aimed at safeguarding those undertaking the fast.
Varuthini Ekadashi History
According to Hindu scriptures, there’s a tale where Lord Shiva, angered by Lord Brahma, severed Brahma’s fifth head. As a consequence, Lord Shiva incurred a curse from Lord Brahma. However, with the intervention of Lord Vishnu, Shiva was freed from this curse and sin. Legend holds that observing the fast on Varuthini Ekadashi helped absolve Lord Shiva from this curse. Devotees who observe this fast with utmost devotion are believed to reap rewards akin to a thousand years of penance.
Varuthini Ekadashi Date and Time
Varuthini Ekadashi, falling on Saturday, 4 May 2024, holds special significance for Hindus. According to the Drik Panchang, auspicious timings for observing the festival are as follows:
– Varuthini Ekadashi Tithi begins at 11:24 pm on 3 May
– Varuthini Ekadashi Tithi ends at 8:38 pm on 4 May
– The Parana Time is from 5:54 am to 08:35 am on 5 May
Varuthini Ekadashi Rituals
The observance of Varuthini Ekadashi involves several rituals:
1. Wake up during the Brahma Muhurta, the auspicious time before dawn, and take a purifying bath. Make a resolve to observe the fast.
2. Set up a wooden platform and place an image of Lord Vishnu on it, covering it with red or yellow cloth.
3. Offer Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and Ganga water) to Lord Vishnu.
4. Light incense, lamps, and camphor as offerings.
5. Chant a mantra of Lord Vishnu, perform the ‘Aarti’, and distribute Prasad among all.
Varuthini Ekadashi is a time for people to come together and worship Lord Vishnu with utmost devotion, following these rituals meticulously.