Among the 24 Ekadashis observed in Hinduism, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi, is considered the most supreme.
This sacred day, which occurs once a year, offers a rare opportunity for devotees to receive the direct grace of Lord Narayana and achieve spiritual elevation.Grand Celebration at Srinagar's Sri Banashankari Temple: 21st Anniversary and 'Banada Hunnime' Jatra Mahotsava
Significance of Mukkoti Ekadashi:
This day is called Mukkoti Ekadashi for a special reason. According to belief, on this auspicious day, the gates of Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu's divine abode) remain open, and 33 crore (330 million) deities assemble in Vaikuntha to have darshan of Lord Vishnu.
Therefore, devotees who worship Lord Vishnu on this day receive not only the direct blessings of Lord Narayana but also the grace of these millions of deities. Scriptures state that darshan and worship on this day liberate one from the cycle of birth and death, paving the way to moksha (salvation).Also Read: New Year celebrations and challenges in Bengaluru: Police on hawk-eyed vigil..!
Rules and Observance of the Vrat (Fast):
Dietary Rules: Completely avoid rice-based foods (anna), onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian items. Devotees may consume only fruits and milk, or the elderly/weak can have flattened rice (avalakki/poha).Jagran (Vigil) Avoid sleeping during the day.
Stay awake throughout the night (jagran), chanting Vishnu Sahasranama, Ashtottara, and the mantra Om Namo Narayanaya – this is highly meritorious.Puja Rituals: Take a bath during Brahmi Muhurta (early dawn), become pure, light a ghee lamp, and offer a Tulsi garland (dear to Lord Vishnu) during archana.Also Read: Kuvempu Jayanti – World Humanism Day: A Journey from Consciousness to Universal Humanism
On the next day (Dwadashi), break the fast (parana) after sunrise. Performing annadanam (food donation) on this day is extremely rewarding.
Observing this vrat purifies sins accumulated through the 10 karmendriyas (organs of action) and 1 manas (mind), leading to purification of the mind and soul.Also Read: 'Kanakapura Rock' becomes a refuge for Kogile Layout victims: Will they get the fortune of rehabilitation..?