Vaikunda Ekadasi

Ekadashi that occurs in the Vedic calendar or Hindu calendar in the month of Marghazhi or Margashira or Margashirsha (corresponding to late December - January in English calendar). Vaishnavism (Seva or Devotional service to Bhagwaan Visnu or Vishnu) implies that ‘Vaikunta Dwara’ or ‘the Divine Gate to Bhagwaan Visnu's Inner Sanctum’ is opened to pure and high class Bhaktas/Devotees of Bhagwaan Visnu on this day. The Margashirsha shukla paksha Ekādaśī-vrata in the Vedic calendar is known as 'Mokshada Ekadashi'. People also know and refer the same as Vaikunta Ekadasi.

The significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi can be traced back to the Padma Purana. The Purana indicates that Lord Vishnu took the form of ‘Ekadasi’ – female energy – to kill demon Muran. This happened during the month of Margazhi. Impressed by ‘Ekadasi,’ Lord Vishnu told her that whoever worships him on this day will reach ‘Vaikunta’ (heaven).

Like all Ekadasi days, devotees fast on this day and observe vigil the whole night. Some people indulge in meditation, Japa and singing of Hari Kirtan. Rice is avoided during ekadashi days as it is believed that the demon Mura finds a dwelling in the rice eaten on Ekadasi day.