Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: Date, Rituals, Significance, and Celebrations

Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: A Gateway to Divine Grace

Imagine a day when the celestial doors of Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu, swing open, showering blessings upon the devoted. This is the essence of Vaikuntha Ekadashi, a sacred Hindu festival that transcends mere rituals, offering a profound spiritual experience. Celebrated primarily in South India, this festival is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls during the auspicious month of Margashirsha (December-January), specifically on the eleventh day of the waxing moon. Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a cosmic alignment that invites devotees to cleanse their minds, purify their spirits, and embark on a journey toward spiritual liberation.

This blog serves as your comprehensive guide, delving into the depths of Vaikuntha Ekadashi. Here, we will explore the festival’s profound meaning, its rich significance, the traditional practices, and how you, too, can partake in this spiritually enriching experience. Join us as we uncover the layers of this auspicious occasion from its etymological roots to its modern celebrations.

Understanding Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: Meaning and Symbolism

Meaning of Vaikuntha Ekadashi

Let’s break down what "Vaikuntha Ekadashi" really means. The word "Vaikuntha" refers to the divine home of Lord Vishnu, a place of ultimate peace and happiness. It is the divine abode of Lord Vishnu, where He resides with His beloved devotees and eternally performs divine pastimes. The term "Ekadashi" signifies the eleventh day of a lunar fortnight. This means it’s the eleventh day after either a new moon or a full moon. So, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is essentially the eleventh day of the lunar cycle dedicated to the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.

But it's more than just a name; this day has deep spiritual meaning. It's a time when many believe that the gates to Vaikuntha open, allowing devotees a chance to get closer to the Lord and achieve liberation (moksha). It's like a special day when the path to enlightenment is more accessible.

Symbolic Significance

This day is seen as a pathway to freedom from the cycle of birth and death. It’s believed that those who die on this day directly go to Vaikuntha, a place which is free from Kuntha (anxiety). Think of it as a fast track to spiritual freedom for those who are devoted.

The Story Behind

The day is also linked to the story of Samudra Manthan, the churning of the Milk Ocean. This is a famous story where the demigods and demons worked together to extract Amrit, the nectar of immortality. This story highlights the idea that even great efforts can lead to spiritual gains. The emergence of Amrit is considered a very auspicious event associated with Vaikuntha Ekadashi.

In simple terms, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a special day focused on Lord Vishnu, offering a path to spiritual freedom and a reminder of the importance of devotion and good actions.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 Date

Mark your calendars! Vaikuntha Ekadashi in 2025 falls on Friday, January 10th. This is the day when devotees observe the fast and engage in special prayers.

To be precise, here are the important timings:

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: The Ekadashi tithi (the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight) starts at 12:22 PM on January 9, 2025.
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: The Ekadashi tithi ends at 10:19 AM on January 10, 2025.
• Vrat Parana Time: This is the time to break the fast on the next day, Dwadashi. The Parana time is between 7:14 AM and 8:21 AM on January 11, 2025. It is important to note that the Parana is done after sunrise on the next day.

Why the Specific Timing Matters

The timing of Vaikuntha Ekadashi is not random; it is closely linked to the lunar cycles. The Ekadashi tithi is considered a very auspicious time for spiritual practices. Observing the fast and other rituals during this specific period is thought to bring the full blessings of Lord Vishnu. This precise timing ensures that devotees are aligned with the cosmic energies of the day, making their efforts more fruitful. It is essential to break the fast (Parana) at the correct time to complete the Vrat successfully.

In simple terms, knowing the correct date and timings for Vaikuntha Ekadashi helps devotees observe the festival properly, maximizing the spiritual benefits.

Significance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi: A Day of Liberation

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is not just another festival; it is a day of immense spiritual significance, primarily focused on the concept of liberation (moksha).

• Pathway to Vaikuntha: It is believed that those who die on this day are freed from the cycle of birth and death and are directly taken to Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu. This is a core belief that makes this day so important for devotees.

• Blessings of Lord Vishnu: On Vaikuntha Ekadashi, it is said that Lord Vishnu personally appears at the entrances of his temples to bless his devotees. This belief encourages devotees to visit temples and seek his divine grace on this special day.

• Universal Spiritual Gathering: It's also believed that all the demigods, including Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, gather in Vaikuntha on this day. This makes Vaikuntha Ekadashi a truly universal spiritual gathering.

• Philosophical and Theological Importance: Observing Vaikuntha Ekadashi is deeply connected to broader spiritual beliefs in Hinduism. It encourages:

  • Self-purification: Through fasting and other practices.
  • Devotion: By focusing on Lord Vishnu and engaging in prayers.
  • Liberation: By seeking freedom from the cycle of birth and death.

In essence, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a powerful day focused on spiritual freedom, divine blessings, and the importance of devotion. It is not just a religious observance but a pathway to liberation and divine grace for sincere devotees.

The Sacred Vaikuntha Dwara: The Gateway to Liberation

A key part of Vaikuntha Ekadashi is the Vaikuntha Dwara. This is a special entrance in Vishnu temples, often on the northern side, that is opened only on this particular day.

What is Vaikuntha Dwara?

It's a special gate or entrance that is opened in Vishnu temples only on the day of Vaikuntha Ekadashi. Think of it as a symbolic doorway.

Symbolism

Passing through this gate is believed to be like entering Vaikuntha, the home of Lord Vishnu. It's said to grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This act is a symbolic way for devotees to get closer to the divine and is a key part of the Vaikuntha Ekadashi observance.

Rituals Around Vaikuntha Dwara

Before the Vaikuntha Dwara is opened to the public, special rituals and pujas are performed. These ceremonies are done to purify the space and make it ready for devotees.

The Role of Nammalwar

The opening of the Vaikuntha Dwara also commemorates the return of Nammalwar, a revered saint, to Godhead. This adds another layer of spiritual significance to the day.

In simple words, the Vaikuntha Dwara is a sacred gateway that provides devotees with a symbolic path to liberation, and passing through it on Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a key event for spiritual benefit.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat Katha

The Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat Katha, a traditional story, emphasizes the spiritual significance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025, a day when the gates of Vaikuntha, Lord Vishnu's abode, are believed to open. This day, observed primarily in South India, is a time for introspection, devotion, and seeking divine grace.

• Significance of the Day: Vaikuntha Ekadashi commemorates the emergence of Amrit, the nectar of immortality, during the churning of the Milk Ocean (Samudra Manthan). Those who die on this day are believed to be freed from the cycle of birth and death and attain Vaikuntha directly.
• Nammalwar and Vaikuntha Dwara: The day also honors the return of Nammalwar, a great devotee, to the Lord's abode. Vishnu temples open the Vaikuntha Dwara, a special entrance, on this day, and it is believed that those who pass through this gate are guaranteed to reach Vaikuntha.
• Gathering of the Demigods: All the gods, including Brahma and Shiva, are believed to assemble in Vaikuntha on this day, which is why it's also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi.
• Importance of Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast (Ekadashi Vrata) on this day, abstaining from rice. Complete fasting is ideal, but some consume light fruits and milk. The fast is broken the next day, during the prescribed Parana time. Fasting is considered a penance to purify the mind and heart and to control the senses.
• King Dhundhu: Though details are not provided in the sources, the Vrat Katha often includes the legend of King Dhundhu, emphasizing the importance of devotion and fasting on this day.
• King Ambarisha and Rishi Durvasa: The story of King Ambarisha, a great devotee, highlights the power of devotion. He was tested by Rishi Durvasa, but his devotion and adherence to his fast were protected by Lord Vishnu.
• Lord Rama and Vijaya Ekadashi: The story of Lord Rama and the Vijaya Ekadashi shows how observing a fast with specific rituals can help overcome obstacles, as it enabled him to cross the ocean to Lanka and defeat Ravana.
• Practices on Vaikuntha Ekadashi: On this day, devotees visit temples, pass through the Vaikuntha Dwara, chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, engage in Harinaam Japa and Nama Sankirtana, read the Bhagavad Gita, and offer sevas, like Tulasi Archana and Annadana.
• Benefits of Vaikuntha Ekadashi: Observing this day with faith can lead to spiritual liberation, purification, divine grace, strengthened devotion, and mental balance.

This is the essence of the Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat Katha, which is not just about rituals but is a guide to spiritual growth, self-discovery, and liberation.

Observing Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: A Guide to Practice

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a day of profound spiritual significance, and its observance involves specific practices aimed at purifying the mind, body, and spirit, and enhancing devotion to Lord Vishnu. This guide integrates recommendations from the ancient scriptures and litretures with other details from our sources to provide a comprehensive approach.

1.  Seeking Divine Blessings through Temple Visits
   • Visit a Vishnu Temple: It's highly recommended to visit a temple of Lord Vishnu or any of His avataras (incarnations) in your neighborhood. Participate in the special Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations.
   • Vaikuntha Dwara: Many temples erect a special entrance called Vaikuntha Dwara on this day. Passing through this dwara is believed to help one attain Vaikuntha.
   • Home Worship: If visiting a temple is not possible, you can decorate Deities of Lord Vishnu, Krishna, or any of His avataras at home and perform a special puja with your family.
2.  Chanting the Hare Krishna Mahamantra
   • Chant the Mantra: It's very beneficial to chant the Hare Krishna mahamantra on Vaikuntha Ekadashi: "Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare | Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare ||"
   • Spiritual Realization: The Vedic scriptures recommend chanting the holy names of Lord Krishna as an easy path to spiritual realization, especially in this age.
   • Purification: Chanting this mantra is said to purify the heart, relieve miseries, and help one attain spiritual perfection.
3.  Engaging with the Bhagavad-gita
   • Read the Bhagavad-gita: Since Gita Jayanti often falls on the same day as Vaikuntha Ekadashi, reading the Bhagavad-gita is a recommended spiritual activity.
   • Association with Krishna: Reading the Gita is as good as associating with Lord Krishna. Take time to recite the verses and understand their meaning.
   • Two Types of Literature: There are two main scriptures that glorify Lord Krishna: the Srimad Bhagavatam, which speaks of the Lord, His devotees, and devotional service; and the Bhagavad-gita, where the Lord directly speaks to Arjuna.
4.  Observing the Ekadashi Fast
   • Fasting Benefits: Observing a fast on Ekadashi has both physical and spiritual benefits.
   • Levels of Fasting: There are various levels of fasting. Choose one according to your convenience.
   • No Rice: It is strictly forbidden to consume rice on Ekadashi, due to the belief that a demon resides in rice on this day.
   • Breaking the Fast (Parana): The fast should be broken the next day (Dwadashi) during the prescribed Parana time, with light, easily digestible foods like milk or fruit juice. The Parana time is after the Ekadashi tithi ends.
   • Moderation: While fasting is encouraged, avoid excessive fasting that causes weakness.
5.  Rendering Service (Seva) to Lord Vishnu
   • Selfless Service: Engage in service without any selfish motive, just out of love for the Lord, like a mother serves her child.
   • Awaken Love: By engaging in the service of the Lord, we awaken our dormant love for Him.
   • Seva Options at Temples: You can offer various sevas at temples, such as:
     • Volunteering for temple activities such as distributing prasadam and books, or guiding visitors.
     • Sharing the significance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi with friends and family.
     • Offering special worship to the Lord, which might include a Laksharchana seva, where devotees chant one lakh names of the Lord while performing archana.
   • Online Seva: Many temples provide ways to participate in seva and make donations online.

Other Recommended Practices

• Chanting and Prayers: Along with the Hare Krishna mahamantra, engage in Hari Japa (chanting of Lord Hari’s name) and Hari nama sankeerthana (singing the glories of Lord Hari). Recite the Sri Vishnu Sahasranama and Sri Lakshmi Ashtothara.
• Spiritual Activities: Devote time to reading scriptures, meditating, and contemplating on the divine.
• Prasadam Distribution: Distributing prasadam is a good way to share the blessings of the Lord.

By combining these practices—temple visits, chanting, scripture study, fasting, and seva—you can observe Vaikuntha Ekadashi in a meaningful way, enhancing your spiritual journey and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Significance and Benefits of Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is not just a day of rituals, but a powerful practice offering profound spiritual, mental, and physical benefits to sincere devotees. The significance of this day lies in the belief that it opens a pathway to liberation and divine grace.

• Spiritual Liberation:
  • The most significant belief is that observing the fast and rituals with faith can lead to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
  • It is believed that those who die on this day directly attain Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.
  • Entering the Vaikuntha Dwara symbolically grants access to this spiritual realm.
• Purification and Cleansing:
  • Fasting and other practices are believed to purify the mind, body, and spirit.
  • Fasting is considered a form of penance that destroys sins and cleanses impurities, fostering devotion and love for God.
  • Fasting helps in controlling the senses and passions.
• Divine Grace:
  • Devotees believe that on Vaikuntha Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu is especially accessible and showers blessings.
  • Engaging in practices such as chanting, prayers, and seva is aimed at pleasing the Lord and earning His grace.
  • It is said that Lord Vishnu personally appears at the entrance of His temples on this day.
• Mental and Emotional Well-being:
  • The discipline of fasting and focus on spiritual activities promotes mental calmness and emotional balance.
  • By withdrawing the senses and focusing the mind on God, devotees can reduce mental chatter and find inner peace.
  • Fasting helps to control the mind and aid in meditation.
• Physical Benefits:
  • Fasting is considered beneficial for physical health, overhauling the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and urinary systems.
  • It can help eliminate toxins and remove uric acid deposits.
  • Fasting provides rest to the internal organs and is believed to aid in weight management and prevent diseases related to overeating. However, it is important to fast moderately
• Strengthened Devotion and Faith:
  • Regularly observing Ekadashi, especially Vaikuntha Ekadashi, is believed to foster devotion and strengthen faith.
  • Chanting the Lord's name is considered particularly powerful and pleasing to God, bringing a sense of His presence.
• Other Benefits:
  • The day commemorates the return of Nammalwar, a great devotee, to Godhead, adding to its spiritual significance.
  • It is associated with the Samudra Manthan (churning of the Milk Ocean), during which Amrit (nectar) emerged.
  • All the gods are believed to assemble in Vaikuntha on this day.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi: A Day of Liberation and Divine Blessings

In summary, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a powerful day for spiritual growth, offering devotees a unique opportunity to attain liberation, purify themselves, and receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The practices associated with this day are not merely rituals but serve as tools for self-transformation and fostering a deeper connection with the divine. By observing this sacred day, devotees align their hearts and minds with Lord Vishnu, gaining profound spiritual insights and a heightened sense of devotion.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 Celebrations at ISKCON

ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) temples celebrate Vaikuntha Ekadashi with special programs that blend traditional practices with ISKCON's unique emphasis on bhakti-yoga (devotional service). These celebrations aim to create a spiritually uplifting experience for devotees. Some of the key features of Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations at ISKCON include:

1. Vaikuntha Dwara Opening

• Symbolism: A key feature of the festival is the opening of the Vaikuntha Dwara, symbolizing the entrance to the spiritual abode of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that passing through this gate will help them attain liberation and divine blessings.
• Timings: At ISKCON Bangalore, the Vaikuntha Dwara is open for three days, from January 10th to 12th, 2025. ISKCON Hubli-Dharwad also erects a grand Vaikuntha Dwara, approximately 15 feet high and 11 feet wide, open to the public from 9 AM to 9 PM.

2. Deity Worship and Abhishekam

• Morning Worship: The deity of Sri Srinivasa Govinda receives special worship, including an elaborate Abhishekam (anointing ceremony) in the morning.
• Divine Blessings: Devotees take part in the worship and receive the divine grace of Lord Vishnu through these sacred rituals.

3. Seva Offerings

• Participation in Sevas: Devotees are encouraged to offer various Sevas (services) on this auspicious day to further enhance their spiritual experience. These sevas include:
  • Tulasi Archana Seva: Offering Tulasi leaves to Sri Srinivasa Govinda.
  • Vaikuntha Dwara Puja: Participating in the puja at the Vaikuntha Dwara.
  • Laddu Prasada Seva: Sponsoring the distribution of laddu prasadam.
  • Annadana Seva: Sponsoring the distribution of prasadam.
  • Vastra Alankara Seva: Adorning the Lord with new outfits and jewelry.
  • Srivari Abhisheka: Sponsoring the grand Abhishekam performed for Sri Srinivasa Govinda.
  • Srivari Hundi Seva: Making offerings of devotion towards the Lord.
• Home Offerings: Devotees can sponsor these sevas and may also receive prasadam delivered to their homes as part of the divine blessings.

4. Kirtan and Chanting

• Devotional Singing: ISKCON places significant emphasis on the chanting of the Hare Krishna Mahamantra, with devotees participating in continuous kirtan (devotional singing) throughout the day. The energy generated through these spiritual activities helps devotees align themselves with Lord Vishnu's divine presence.
• Laksharchana Seva: Many temples also feature Laksharchana Seva, where devotees chant one lakh names of the Lord as an act of devotion.

5. Extended Darshan Timings

• Darshan Timings at ISKCON: ISKCON temples often extend darshan timings (viewing of the deity) during Vaikuntha Ekadashi to allow devotees to experience more of the divine atmosphere. Some examples include:
  • ISKCON Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Rajajinagar: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill, Vasanthapura: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

6. Online Participation

• Virtual Participation: For those unable to visit the temples in person, ISKCON provides online darshan and opportunities to participate in the celebrations virtually. This enables devotees from around the world to engage with the festival and receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

7. Additional Activities

• Pallakki Utsava: A procession of the deities in a palanquin is organized to honor Lord Vishnu.
• Kalyanotsava: A ceremonial marriage of the deities is held to celebrate the divine union.
• Sri Srinivasa Govinda Arati: A special Arati ceremony is conducted to glorify the Lord.
• Cultural Programs: ISKCON temples often feature cultural programs such as dance dramas and music concerts to further glorify the divine presence and engage devotees in an immersive spiritual experience.
• Prasadam Distribution: Visitors at the temples are served prasadam (blessed food) as part of the celebrations.

Key Elements of ISKCON Celebrations

• Three-day opening of the Vaikuntha Dwara.
• Special Abhishekam for Sri Srinivasa Govinda.
• Various Seva offerings for devotees to participate in.
• Continuous Kirtan and chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra.
• Extended darshan timings at multiple ISKCON temple locations.
• Online participation opportunities for devotees worldwide.
• Special events such as Pallakki Utsava, Laksharchana Seva, and Kalyanotsava.

Seva Offerings and Donations on Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025

Vaikuntha Ekadashi presents an exceptional opportunity for devotees to deepen their spiritual practice by offering various sevas (services) and making donations to temples, particularly ISKCON temples. These acts of devotion are believed to bring profound blessings and spiritual merit.

Types of Seva Offerings

Devotees can engage in a variety of sevas, each of which holds special significance on Vaikuntha Ekadashi. These services are not just rituals but heartfelt expressions of devotion to Lord Vishnu:

1. Tulasi Archana Seva

   • Significance: Devotees offer Tulasi leaves to Sri Srinivasa Govinda. Tulasi is considered sacred and dear to Lord Vishnu, and offering these leaves is a powerful act of devotion and a way to purify the mind and soul.

2. Vaikuntha Dwara Puja

   • Significance: Participation in a puja at the Vaikuntha Dwara is one of the most auspicious activities of Vaikuntha Ekadashi. The Vaikuntha Dwara symbolizes the gateway to Lord Vishnu's spiritual abode. By performing this puja, devotees receive the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu.

3. Laddu Prasada Seva

   • Significance: Devotees can sponsor the distribution of laddu prasadam. Prasadam is sanctified food offered to the deity and then distributed to devotees. By sponsoring laddu prasada, devotees share Lord Vishnu's blessings with others.

4. Srivari Abhisheka

   • Significance: Abhishekam is a grand ceremonial bathing of the deity of Sri Srinivasa Govinda. This ritual is an offering of pure devotion and a way to honor the Lord in the most sacred manner.

5. Annadana Seva

   • Significance: Sponsoring the distribution of prasadam is a highly meritorious act. Feeding others, particularly on this holy day, is believed to accumulate spiritual merit and divine favor.

6. Vastra Alankara Seva

   • Significance: This involves adorning the Lord with new outfits and jewelry. Offering fine clothes and ornaments is an expression of love and devotion towards Lord Vishnu.

7. Srivari Hundi Seva

   • Significance: Donating towards the temple hundi (donation box) is an essential form of offering. This contribution directly supports the upkeep and activities of the temple, ensuring its ability to serve the community and devotees.

Significance of Seva

The various sevas performed on Vaikuntha Ekadashi are not just acts of ritual, but vital expressions of devotion that hold immense spiritual significance:

• Lord Vishnu’s Presence: It is believed that on Vaikuntha Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu Himself personally comes to the entrance of His temple. Therefore, serving the Lord with devotion during this time is a guaranteed way to receive divine grace.

• Entry into Vaikuntha: Devotees believe that by serving the Lord with faith, they are guaranteed entry into Vaikuntha, the eternal spiritual abode of Lord Vishnu.

• Divine Grace of Lord Venkateshwara: Offering seva on this auspicious day invokes the divine grace of Lord Venkateshwara (another manifestation of Lord Vishnu), bringing peace, blessings, and spiritual advancement.

Receiving Prasadam

Devotees who engage in seva during Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 often receive prasadam from the temple. Prasadam is considered a sacred blessing, and it serves as a tangible way for devotees to experience the grace of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that consuming or sharing prasadam brings purity to the mind and soul, as it has been sanctified through devotion.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi Donations

Making donations is another significant way for devotees to participate in Vaikuntha Ekadashi celebrations 2025. Donations support the maintenance and activities of the temple, enabling it to continue offering spiritual services, cultural programs, and prasadam distribution.

• Types of Donations:
  • Devotees can make general donations or contribute specifically to particular sevas.
  • Online Donations: ISKCON temples provide secure online platforms for devotees to make donations. This makes it easier for devotees to contribute, especially for those who cannot visit the temple in person.

Tax Exemption on Donations

Donations made to ISKCON temples are eligible for tax exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. To avail of the tax exemption:

• Donors need to provide their PAN and address as mandatory details while making the donation.
• Donors will receive a receipt for their contribution, which can be used for claiming the tax deduction.

Support for Temple Activities

The donations made during Vaikuntha Ekadashi are crucial in supporting the temple’s activities and maintenance. They help ensure that the temple continues to provide:

• Spiritual services such as darshan, kirtans, and pujas.
• Cultural programs, including music, dance, and drama performances that glorify Lord Vishnu.
• Prasadam distribution for devotees, ensuring that everyone can share in the Lord’s blessings.

In essence, by making donations, devotees are contributing to the ongoing vibrancy of temple life and helping to preserve the teachings and traditions of Lord Vishnu for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the significance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi?
Ans. Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, observed on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in the month of Margashirsha (December-January). It is believed that the gates of Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu, are opened on this day.

Q2. Why is rice prohibited on Ekadashi?
Ans. It is believed that a demon resides in rice eaten on Ekadashi. The demon is said to be formed from the sweat of Brahma and was told to dwell in the rice consumed on Ekadashi days, hence the prohibition.

Q3. What is the Vaikuntha Dwara?
Ans. The Vaikuntha Dwara is a special entrance in Vishnu temples that is opened only on Vaikuntha Ekadashi. It symbolizes the gateway to Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu, and it is believed that passing through this gate guarantees the attainment of the spiritual abode.

Q4. What are the benefits of fasting on Ekadashi?
Ans. Fasting is believed to purify the mind, body, and spirit. It is seen as a form of penance that destroys sins, fosters devotion, helps control the senses, and promotes mental clarity. It is also thought to have physical health benefits.

Q5. How can I participate in the celebrations if I cannot visit a temple?
Ans. You can participate in online darshan and celebrations offered by ISKCON and other temples. You can also chant the Hare Krishna mahamantra, read the Bhagavad Gita, and observe the Ekadashi fast at home.

Q6. How can I offer Seva and make donations?
Ans. You can offer various sevas such as Tulasi Archana, Vaikuntha Dwara Puja, Laddu Prasada Seva, Srivari Abhisheka, and Annadana Seva. You can make donations online or in person, and ISKCON donations are often eligible for tax exemptions under section 80G of the Income Tax Act.

Q7. What are the timings for temple visits?
Ans. At ISKCON Bangalore, the Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Rajajinagar is open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and the ISKCON Vaikuntha Hill in Vasanthapura is open from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM. The Vaikuntha Dwara remains open for three days, from January 10th to 12th in 2025. Timings may vary in other temples, check with your local temple.

Q8. What is the Parana time of Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025?
Ans. The Parana time, which is the time to break the fast, is between 7:14 AM and 8:21 AM on January 11, 2025.

Conclusion

In summary, offering seva and making donations during Vaikuntha Ekadashi are powerful ways to express devotion, seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu, and contribute to the spiritual and communal activities of the temple. These acts not only offer spiritual benefits but also support the functioning and growth of temples like ISKCON, ensuring the continued spread of Lord Vishnu's teachings and divine grace. Through seva and donations, devotees actively participate in the sacred occasion and help sustain the temple's mission of devotion and service.