Prabodhini Ekadashi Vrat 2025: Kartik Month’s Sacred Awakening of Lord Vishnu

 

Date: Saturday, 1 November 2025
Tithi: Kartik Shukla Ekadashi
Also known as: Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Vishnu Prabodhini, Kartiki Ekadashi

Spiritual Significance

Prabodhini Ekadashi marks the end of Chaturmas, the four-month period when Lord Vishnu is believed to be in cosmic sleep. On this day, He awakens and blesses devotees with spiritual merit, auspicious beginnings, and moksha.

• Tulsi Vivaah: The divine marriage of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Tulsi is performed, symbolizing the start of the Hindu wedding season.
• Vaikuntha Blessings: Observing this vrat is said to cleanse sins and grant direct entry to Vaikuntha, Vishnu’s abode.
• Swaminarayan Tradition: This day commemorates the diksha of Swaminarayan by Guru Ramanand Swami.

Rituals and Observances

• Holy Bathing: Devotees wake before sunrise and bathe in sacred rivers or water bodies. This Kartik bath is considered more purifying than pilgrimages.
• Fasting: A strict nirjala vrat (no food or water) is observed throughout the day.
• Temple Visits: In the evening, devotees visit Vishnu temples and participate in special pujas.
• Waking the Lord: Children light mustard torches and make joyful noise to awaken Lord Vishnu from His slumber.
• Tulsi Vivaah Ceremony: A symbolic wedding of Tulsi and Vishnu is performed with bhajans, lamps, and offerings. In some regions, this is held the next day.

Regional Celebrations

• Maharashtra & Gujarat: Prabodhini Ekadashi is celebrated with grandeur, especially in Pandharpur, where the Kartik Yatra concludes.
• Pushkar Fair Begins: Rajasthan’s famous Pushkar Mela starts on this day, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike.

 Scriptural Reference

The greatness of Prabodhini Ekadashi is narrated by Lord Brahma to Sage Narada in the Skanda Purana. It is considered the most auspicious day to begin marriages, naming ceremonies, and housewarmings.