Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: Vaikuntha Ekadashi is regarded as one of the most sacred fasting days in Hindu tradition. Observed with deep devotion by followers of Lord Vishnu, this auspicious Ekadashi falls on the eleventh lunar day of the Shukla Paksha in the Paush month. In 2025, Vaikuntha Ekadashi will be observed on 30 December. Devotees believe that fasting and worship on this day open the divine gateway to Vaikuntha, the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu, bringing spiritual liberation and divine grace.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi holds a unique place among all Ekadashi observances. While there are twenty-four Ekadashi fasts in a lunar year, this one is considered the most powerful. According to ancient Hindu scriptures, especially the Padma Purana, the spiritual merit gained from observing this single vrat is equivalent to observing all Ekadashis throughout the year. It is believed that on this sacred day, the Vaikuntha Dwaram, or the celestial gate to salvation, opens for devoted souls.
This Ekadashi is also known by other names such as Mukkoti Ekadashi and Swargavathil Ekadashi in South India. In North India, it is commonly observed as Paush Putrada Ekadashi, highlighting its importance for family well-being and progeny.
In 2025, Vaikuntha Ekadashi will be observed on Tuesday, 30 December. According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 07:51 AM on 30 December and will conclude at 05:01 AM on 31 December. Devotees usually observe the fast throughout the Ekadashi Tithi and conclude it the next day after sunrise, following traditional guidelines.
Parana, which is the ritual of breaking the fast, is an essential part of the Ekadashi observance. For Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025, the Parana time is scheduled on Wednesday, 31 December, between 01:26 PM and 03:31 PM. Devotees are advised to strictly follow the prescribed Parana window to ensure the spiritual completeness of the vrat.
The spiritual importance of Vaikuntha Ekadashi goes beyond ritual fasting. It symbolizes the soul’s journey toward liberation and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. Scriptures state that devotees who observe this vrat with sincerity and devotion are blessed with moksha and do not have to face the realm of Yama after death.
It is believed that sincere prayers offered on this day reach Lord Vishnu directly, making it an ideal time for spiritual growth, self-reflection, and inner purification. Many devotees also consider this day highly favorable for seeking forgiveness, resolving past karmic burdens, and strengthening their faith.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is celebrated with great devotion, especially in South India. Major temples witness grand celebrations, elaborate decorations, and special prayers. On this day, devotees wake up early, take a ritual bath, and begin their vrat with prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Most observers abstain from consuming grains and follow a sattvic diet consisting of fruits, milk, and water. Some devotees choose to observe a nirjala fast, refraining from both food and water until the next day. Chanting Vishnu mantras, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, reading the Bhagavad Gita, and listening to Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat Katha are considered highly auspicious practices.
Visiting Vishnu temples on Vaikuntha Ekadashi is considered extremely sacred. Devotees believe that offering prayers and seeking darshan on this day grants divine blessings and spiritual upliftment. In many temples, a special entrance symbolizing the Vaikuntha Dwaram is opened, and passing through it is believed to cleanse devotees of sins and bring them closer to liberation.
In today’s fast-paced life, Vaikuntha Ekadashi serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with spiritual values. Beyond rituals, it emphasizes devotion, discipline, and inner purity. Observing this sacred day with faith is believed to attract peace, prosperity, and divine protection into one’s life.
