शान्ताकारं भुजगशयनं पद्मनाभं सुरेशं
विश्वाधारं गगनसदृशं मेघवर्णं शुभाङ्गम् ।
लक्ष्मीकान्तं कमलनयनं योगिभिर्ध्यानगम्यं
वन्दे विष्णुं भवभयहरं सर्वलोकैकनाथम् ॥
Varuthini Ekadashi falls during Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of Vaisakha month (April-May) according to Amanta calendar or Chaitra month according to Purnimanta calendar. It is very sacred Ekadashi observed by devotees of Bhagawan Vishnu to protect themselves from all kinds of harm, sickness, and misery. Observing this auspicious day brings immense fortune, physical well being, and spiritual upliftment.
Meaning and Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi
Understanding name itself reveals purpose of this divine day. In Sanskrit, Varuthini means protected, armored, or guarded. Therefore, Varuthini Ekadashi translates to 11th day that provides divine shield and protection to devotee.
Life presents many difficulties, physical sufferings, and unexpected hardships. Observing fast on Varuthini Ekadashi acts like strong spiritual armor that shields devotee from evil energies, physical illness, and bad luck. Scriptures state that merit gained from observing this fast equals giving away massive amounts of gold in charity or performing intense penance for thousands of years. It brings good fortune, grants healthy body, and ensures peaceful mind.
Legend associated with Varuthini Ekadashi
Scriptures describe famous story told by Bhagawan Krishna to King Yudhishthira, involving noble King named Mandhata. King Mandhata ruled his kingdom with great justice, wisdom, and righteousness. He was kind ruler and devoted vast amount of time to charity, spiritual activities, and devotion to Bhagawan Vishnu.
One day, while King Mandhata was meditating deeply in dense forest, wild black bear approached him quietly. Bear attacked king and began chewing his foot. Despite intense pain and danger to his life, King Mandhata did not break his meditation or lose his mental composure. He did not pick up weapons to attack bear or call his royal guards for help.
Instead, King Mandhata prayed sincerely to Bhagawan Vishnu in his heart, seeking protection from Lord Hari. Bhagawan Vishnu, who always responds to genuine prayers of devotees, appeared immediately on his mount Garuda. Lord Hari released his divine Sudarshana Chakra, which killed bear and saved king.
However, king foot was severely damaged due to bear attack, leaving him in deep pain and grief. Lord Vishnu smiled gently and instructed King Mandhata to observe Varuthini Ekadashi fast in sacred town of Mathura. Lord explained that his present suffering was result of past karma, and observing Varuthini Ekadashi fast with complete faith would heal his body completely.
King Mandhata travelled to Mathura and strictly observed Varuthini Ekadashi fast following all rituals. By divine grace of Madhusudana (Bhagawan Vishnu), king got cured of his physical injury, regained his handsome appearance, and restored his strength. He ruled his kingdom righteously for many years and eventually attained Vaikuntha.
Rituals to be performed on Varuthini Ekadashi
- Wake up early in morning during Brahma Muhurta and take ritual bath.
- Clean puja area and place idol or photo of Bhagawan Vishnu, specifically Madhusudana form.
- Light ghee lamp, offer fresh yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, and Tulsi leaves to Bhagwan.
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Hare Krishna Mahamantra, or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya throughout day.
- Listen to or read Varuthini Ekadashi Katha with family members.
- Observe fast during entire day according to individual capability.
- Strict fast without water (Nirjala) or taking only water is ideal for healthy individuals.
- Milk, curd, and fruits can be consumed if complete fasting is not possible due to health.
- Avoid rice, wheat, barley, lentils, pulses, and all food grains strictly.
- Avoid heavy spices, regular salt (use sendha namak if required), garlic, and onion.
- Avoid tea, coffee, outside processed food, and alcohol completely.
- Perform evening Aarti and maintain spiritual thoughts, avoiding anger, backbiting, or harsh words.
- Break fast on Dwadashi day during Parana time.
- Fast should be broken next day after sunrise during Dwadashi Tithi.
- Ensure Parana is done after completion of Hari Vasara period.
- Offer Naivedya to Bhagwan Vishnu, perform small prayer, and break fast by consuming prasada, water, or fruits before regular food.
PS: Article re-formatted into blocks and Changed the Header Image