Varuthini Ekadashi 2026 Date - Vrat Katha, Rituals, and Significance
Varuthini Ekadashi, also
known as Baruthani Ekadashi, is a revered Hindu festival observed on the 11th
day of Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase) during the months of Vaishakha
(Purnimanta Calendar) or Chaitra (Amavasyant Calendar). This auspicious
day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s fifth incarnation, Lord Vamana, and is
marked by fasting, prayers, and acts of devotion.
The word ‘varuthini’
translates to ‘protected’ or ‘armored,’ symbolizing the divine shield of
blessings and protection bestowed upon devotees who observe this vrat.
Significance of Varuthini
Ekadashi
The greatness of
Varuthini Ekadashi is extolled in the Padma Purana, where Lord Krishna
narrates its glory to King Yudhishthira. Observing this vrat is believed to:
- Confer good fortune, wealth, and
prosperity.
- Act as a shield against all evil and
misfortunes.
- Liberate devotees from the cycle of birth,
life, and death.
- Remove sins and grant pleasure,
salvation, and an undecaying position in the afterlife.
Legends recount how King
Mandhata and King Dhundhumara attained heaven through this vrat.
Even Lord Shiva is said to have observed Varuthini Ekadashi to absolve himself
of the sin of Brahma Hatya (killing a Brahmin).
The significance of this
day is considered greater than giving land, gold, or food in charity. It is
even equated to performing 100 Kanyadaans (giving one’s daughter in
marriage), which is regarded as the highest form of charity.
Rituals and Observances
- Fasting:
Devotees observe a strict fast, refraining from food and water. The fast
begins on Dashami (10th day) with a single meal and continues until
sunrise on Dwadashi (12th day).
- Prohibited Foods:
Rice, chickpeas, black gram, lentils, betel nut, honey, and non-vegetarian
food are avoided. Eating from bell metal utensils is also prohibited.
- Worship:
Lord Vamana is worshipped with special pujas, offerings, and prayers.
Devotees chant the Vishnu Sahasranama and read scriptures like the Bhagavad
Gita.
- Behavioral Discipline:
Devotees abstain from sleep, anger, gambling, applying oil, and harboring
ill feelings. Sexual activity and violence are strictly avoided.
- Charity:
Offering donations such as sesame seeds, land, elephants, and horses is
considered highly auspicious.
Spiritual Benefits
Observing Varuthini
Ekadashi is believed to:
- Wash away sins and negative
influences.
- Bring name, fame, and prosperity.
- Protect devotees from misfortunes and
lead them to moksha (liberation).
This sacred day is a
profound opportunity for spiritual growth, devotion, and self-purification. By
honoring Lord Vishnu with unwavering faith, devotees invite divine blessings
and protection into their lives.
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