Fri Jan 10 14:04:03 UTC 2025: ## Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025: Gates of Vaikuntha Open on January 10th

**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – Vaikuntha Ekadashi, also known as Putrada Ekadashi and Mukkoti Ekadashi, falls on Friday, January 10th, 2025. This significant Hindu festival, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, marks the opening of the celestial gates of Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu. Devotees believe that passing through the symbolically opened Vaikuntha Dwar (gate) in Vishnu temples, particularly in South India (Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana), brings immense blessings.

This Ekadashi, one of 24 observed annually, holds special spiritual importance. Observing a fast (vrat) on this day is considered highly meritorious, believed to alleviate past sins and grant blessings, especially for those seeking progeny. The Padma Purana details the significance of the festival, recounting a legend where Lord Vishnu’s intervention saved the Devas from the demon Muran.

According to tradition, the Vaikuntha Dwar in many Vishnu temples opens only on this day. Devotees are encouraged to visit these temples, perform puja (worship), chant Vishnu mantras (like the Vishnu Gayatri Mantra and Mangalam Bhavan Vishnu Mantra), and read the Bhagavad Gita, as Gita Jayanti often coincides with Vaikuntha Ekadashi. The festival also emphasizes acts of service and devotion to Lord Vishnu.

Breaking the fast (Parana) is crucial; it should be done after sunrise on the following day (Dwadashi), avoiding the Hari Vasar period (the first quarter of Dwadashi). The ideal time is morning, but if that’s impossible, it can be done after midday. The fast is ideally observed for two days, with specific guidelines for different groups of people.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is considered an auspicious occasion for spiritual growth and seeking divine blessings.

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