Tue Dec 30 02:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided Telugu text:
Summary:
The text explains the significance of Vaikuntha Ekadasi, a holy day for devotees of Vishnu. It describes the astronomical basis for the festival, linking it to the movement of the sun and the importance of the ‘Uttara Dwara’ (North Gate) in temples. Devotees believe that passing through this gate on Vaikuntha Ekadasi allows them to attain liberation (Moksha) and enter Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu, free from worldly anxieties. The text also mentions the traditions and practices associated with the day, including fasting, chanting, and charitable giving. It highlights the story of Nammalvar, a devotee who was personally welcomed back to Vaikuntha by Vishnu. The Hare Krishna Movement in Hyderabad is mentioned as hosting special celebrations.
News Article:
Vaikuntha Ekadasi: Devotees Prepare for Auspicious North Gate Passage
Hyderabad, [Date – if known, otherwise omit] – Devotees across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are preparing to celebrate Vaikuntha Ekadasi, one of the most sacred days for followers of Lord Vishnu. Observed during the Shukla Ekadasi of Dhanurmasam (around December-January), the day is believed to be when the gods open the “Uttara Dwara” or North Gate of Vaikuntha, Vishnu’s divine abode.
According to Hindu tradition, the period of Uttarayanam is considered daytime for the Gods, and Dakshinayanam as night. Dhanurmasam, the transition period between these two, is regarded as the Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn) for the deities, making the Shukla Ekadasi within this month especially auspicious.
Temples, particularly Vaishnava temples, will be adorned with special replicas of Vaikuntha, featuring the North Gate. Devotees believe that passing through this gate on Vaikuntha Ekadasi grants them liberation (Moksha) and entrance to Vaikuntha, a realm free from earthly anxieties and desires.
“Vaikuntha means a place free from anxieties,” explained Sri Satya Gaura Chandra Dasa Prabhuji of the Hare Krishna Movement, Hyderabad. “It is the abode of Lord Vishnu, beyond the material world.”
Legend has it that on this day, Lord Vishnu personally welcomed his devotee, Nammalvar, back to Vaikuntha, highlighting the Lord’s love and grace for his devotees.
Millions of devotees are expected to throng Vishnu temples to witness the opening of the North Gate and seek the blessings of the deity. Passing through the gate is considered a transformative experience, purifying one’s life and ensuring a place in Vaikuntha after death.
Devotees are encouraged to observe a strict fast on Ekadasi, engaging in prayer, chanting the Hare Krishna Maha-mantra, and performing acts of charity. Giving to cow protection is regarded highly meritorious.
The Hare Krishna Movement Hyderabad is organizing grand celebrations for Vaikuntha Ekadasi, including special pujas and facilitating the Uttara Dwara Darshan for all devotees, irrespective of caste or creed.
[Contact details as provided in original text can be added here]
First Piper 