Ekadasi, also known as Ekādaśhī, is the eleventh lunar day (tithi) occurring twice a month in the Hindu lunar calendar—during the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) and the waning phase (Krishna Paksha). It holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism and Jainism, often observed through fasting (vratham) and prayers. Among the 26 Ekadasis celebrated annually, Vaikunta Ekadasi is particularly revered, especially in Vishnu temples. It falls during Margashirsha Shukla Paksha, known as Mokshada Ekadasi, in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January), and is associated with attaining spiritual liberation.
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| old image soorgavassal Thirappu. Srirangam thehindu.com |
Devout Hindus observe Ekadasi as an auspicious occasion dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Abstinence from non-vegetarian food is practiced, with most devotees consuming light, vegetarian meals or observing a complete fast. The fasting typically begins at sunrise on Ekadasi and concludes at sunset the following day. The Garuda Purana emphasizes the spiritual benefits of fasting on Ekadasi, including the removal of sins and the attainment of Vishnuloka.
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| Srirangam temple, indiatimes.com |
The observance of Ekadasi varies across regions. In Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, fasting lasts for three days, involving a light meal the day before Ekadasi, complete fasting on the day itself, and breaking the fast after sunrise on the following day. Consumption of grains and cereals is traditionally avoided, with devotees favoring ingredients like fruits, milk, and flours such as singhare ka atta and rajgira ka atta.
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| Soorga vassal, North side srirangam temple |
Above image: The Soorga Vassal is closed year round except on the vaikunda Ekadashi Day. It is said to be the path to liberation from th cycles of birth and death. On this day upon the emergence of Perumal, devottes are allowed to pass through the entrance - a way to salvation.
Tholi Ekadasi, or Shayani Ekadasi, marks the beginning of the four-month Chaturmas period when Lord Vishnu is believed to enter a cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra) in the Ksheersagar. This festival, observed during the Shukla Paksha of Ashadha Masam (June–July), coincides with the rainy season and is of agricultural importance as farmers begin sowing seeds after the first monsoon rains. Known by various names like Padma Ekadasi and Maha Ekadasi, Tholi Ekadasi is celebrated with fasting, prayers, and charitable acts, including feasts for the needy.
In Tamil Nadu, Vaikunta Ekadasi, celebrated with great fervor, involves the opening of the Paramapada Vasal (Swarga Vasal) at the Sri Ranganathar temple in Srirangam, symbolizing the gateway to Vaikunta (heaven). This ritual attracts thousands of devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Similarly, in Kerala, Guruvayur Ekadasi, observed during Vrishchika Sukla Paksha, holds great importance at the Guruvayur temple.
The spiritual essence of Ekadasi transcends religious boundaries, emphasizing self-discipline, compassion, and devotion. By fasting and engaging in acts of service, devotees seek to purify their minds, overcome worldly vices, and connect with the divine.
One of the most important festivals celebrated in Srirangam, It is a 21 daylon festiva, the first 10 days are ‘Pagal pathu’ Ustavams and the next ten days are ‘ra Pathu’ Ustavams. It will begin at the Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswamy temple with the ‘Thirunedunthandagam’ on Tuesday night
The ustavams will start on December 30 and end on January 20.
025 January 9 Mohini Alankaram
Sri Namperumal - Vaikunda Ekadasi Festival - Pagalpatthu 10 day
2025 January 10
Sri Namperumal - Vaikunda Ekadasi Festival - Irappatthu (night) 1 day
Vaikunda Ekadasi - Paramapada Vasal Thirappu (Sorga Vasal Opening) (4.45 AM)
Moolavar Muthangi seva, Namperumal Rathnangi seva
025 January 18
Sri Namperumal - Vaikunda Ekadasi Festival - Irappatthu (night) 9 day
2025 January 19
Sri Namperumal - Vaikunda Ekadasi Festival - Irappatthu (night) 10 day
Theerthavari
2025 January 20
Nammalwar Moksham XI day Festival. End of the festivities at Srirangam. This year it is estimated 4 to 5 mllion devotess will attend the festivities and the HR & CE along with the district administration are taking efforts to make the function at this temple - first one in Divyadesam shine a success. Based on an old article:
https://www.navrangindia.in/2018/12/vaikunta-ekadasi-and-tholi-ekadasi.html
https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/vaikunta-ekadasi-festival-begins-at-srirangam-temple/article67631383.ece
https://jothishi.com/vaikunta-ekadashi
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