April 16, 2025 
Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat, observed on the eleventh day of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Vaishakha, is a significant fast dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, particularly his Vamana avatar. The name “Varuthini” itself signifies “protected” or “armored,” and it is believed that observing this fast with devotion shields devotees from negative energies, purifies them from past sins, and making significant charitable donations. This Ekadashi is celebrated with the aim of seeking Lord Vishnu’s blessings for happiness, prosperity, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Varuthini Ekadashi will be celebrated on Thursday, April 24th. The Ekadashi Tithi begins on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 at 04:43 PM and ends on Thursday, April 24th, 2025 at 02:32 PM.
The Parana muhurat will be on Friday, April 25th, 2025, between 05:46 AM and 08:23 AM. It is important to break the fast within this auspicious window on Dwadashi Tithi. The Dwadashi Tithi ends at 11:44 AM on Friday, April 25th, 2025.
Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat falls on Thursday, April 24th, 2025, is a deeply spiritual observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees typically prepare for the fast on the Dashami Tithi by consuming a simple, sattvic meal and making a firm resolve to observe the Ekadashi with sincerity. On the day of Varuthini Ekadashi, the observance begins with an early morning bath, followed by cleaning the house and the puja area. An idol or picture of Lord Vishnu, particularly his Vamana avatar, is lovingly adorned with flowers and Tulsi leaves, which are sacred to Him.
The primary way to celebrate Varuthini Ekadashi is by observing a strict fast for the entire day. While some devotees may choose to undertake a Nirjala Vrat, others may opt for a Phalahar fast, consuming only fruits, milk, yogurt, and nuts. The essence of the fast is to purify the body and mind, focusing on devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Throughout the day, devotees engage in various spiritual activities such as chanting the holy names and mantras of Lord Vishnu, including “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” and the Vishnu Sahasranama. Reading or listening to the sacred scriptures that narrate the glories of Lord Vishnu and the significance of Ekadashi, especially the Vrat Katha of Varuthini Ekadashi, is also an important practice.
Observance and Rituals
The observance of Varuthini Ekadashi commences on the Dashami Tithi, the day preceding Ekadashi, when devotees traditionally partake in a simple, sattvic meal in the afternoon and make a Sankalp to observe the fast with utmost sincerity. On the Ekadashi day itself, which in 2025 falls on Thursday, April 24th, the day begins with an early morning bath and the thorough cleaning of the house, especially the puja area. A dedicated altar is prepared for Lord Vishnu, where an idol or a picture of the Lord, particularly his Vamana form, is lovingly adorned with fresh flowers, fragrant incense, and sacred Tulsi leaves.
The primary ritual of the day is the strict observance of a fast. While some highly devoted individuals undertake a Nirjala Vrat, abstaining from both food and water, many others observe a Phalahar fast, consuming only fruits, milk, yogurt, and nuts throughout the day. The core principle of the fast is to minimize physical needs and maximize focus on spiritual contemplation and devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Worship and Devotion
Throughout the day of Varuthini Ekadashi, devotees engage in various forms of worship dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The chanting of His sacred names and powerful mantras, and the recitation of the Vishnu Sahasranama, are considered highly auspicious. Reading or listening to the sacred scriptures that narrate the glories of Lord Vishnu and the significance of Ekadashi, particularly the Vrat Katha of Varuthini Ekadashi, is an integral part of the observance.
Performing puja with deep reverence involves offering incense, lighting a ghee lamp, and presenting Lord Vishnu with permissible offerings, depending on the nature of the fast being observed. Singing devotional hymns in praise of Lord Vishnu creates a spiritually uplifting and serene atmosphere. Many devotees also spend time in meditation, focusing on the divine attributes of the Lord. Visiting Vishnu temples to offer special prayers and seek His divine blessings is also a significant aspect of celebrating Varuthini Ekadashi.
Significance of Charitable Acts
On the auspicious day of Varuthini Ekadashi, engaging in acts of charity and kindness is considered highly meritorious. Devotees are encouraged to extend their compassion and generosity to those in need by donating food, clothes, money, or other essentials. This act of giving aligns with the core principles of Hinduism, emphasizing empathy and the importance of contributing to the well-being of others. By observing the Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat with sincere devotion, fasting, worship, and charitable actions, devotees aim to purify their souls, seek divine protection, and attain spiritual progress.