Varuthini Ekadashi, a sacred Hindu observance, holds significant spiritual importance in the Hindu calendar. It falls on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadashi) of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Vaishakha. This year, Varuthini Ekadashi is set to be observed on the 4th of May.
Historical and Religious Significance
The Legend of Varuthini Ekadashi:
According to Hindu mythology, Varuthini Ekadashi is deeply rooted in the narrative of King Mandhata and Sage Vasishta. Legend has it that King Mandhata, a righteous and pious ruler, once encountered a sage named Angira who was in deep meditation. Despite the sage's apparent immobility, ants were freely crawling over his body, causing him immense discomfort.
The King's Offering:
Moved by compassion, King Mandhata tried to remove the ants from the sage's body. However, Sage Angira stopped him, explaining that his discomfort was a result of his own past karma. He advised the king to observe the fast of Varuthini Ekadashi, which would help alleviate his suffering.
The Observance of Varuthini Ekadashi:
In adherence to Sage Angira's counsel, King Mandhata observed the Varuthini Ekadashi fast with utmost devotion and sincerity. As a result, he experienced spiritual purification and liberation from his past karma. This legend underscores the significance of observing Varuthini Ekadashi as a means of atoning for one's sins and seeking divine blessings.
The Fasting Rituals
Fasting Practices:
Devotees who observe Varuthini Ekadashi undertake a strict fast, abstaining from food, water, and worldly pleasures from sunrise on Ekadashi day until the sunrise of the following day. The fast is believed to cleanse the body and soul, purifying the mind and promoting spiritual growth.
Devotional Activities:
Throughout the day, devotees engage in prayer, meditation, and the recitation of sacred texts dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Some devotees also visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, offering prayers and seeking his blessings.
The Merits of Varuthini Ekadashi
Spiritual Significance:
Varuthini Ekadashi is revered for its immense spiritual benefits. It is believed that observing this sacred fast with sincerity and devotion can absolve one of past sins, bestow divine blessings, and bring peace and prosperity into one's life.
Greater Than Charity:
In Hindu scriptures, it is stated that observing Varuthini Ekadashi is more meritorious than performing acts of charity, such as donating a girl in marriage. This highlights the profound significance of this auspicious day in the Hindu faith. Varuthini Ekadashi stands as a testament to the devout faith and spiritual fervor of Hindus worldwide. Through its ancient rituals and profound teachings, it offers devotees an opportunity for spiritual purification, divine grace, and inner transformation. As believers prepare to observe this sacred day on the 4th of May, they embark on a journey of self-discipline, devotion, and divine communion.
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