VAIKUNTA EKADASHI

VAIKUNTA Ekadashi falls in the month of Marga-seersha (December-January). This is
observed with all solemnity in the temples of Lord Vishnu. Fasting is prescribed on all Ekadashis,
that is, the 11th day of the lunar fortnight, twice a month.
In this Kali Yuga, even if just one Ekadashi is observed with dispassion, faith and devotion,
and if the mind is wholly fixed on Hari, one is freed from the rounds of birth and death. There is no
doubt about this. The scriptures give us their assurance on this point.
Devotees fast on this day, observe vigil the whole night and do Japa, Hari Kirtan and
meditation. Some do not take even a drop of water. Those who are unable to fast completely can
take some light fruit and milk.
No rice should be taken on Ekadashi days. This is very important. The sweat that fell down
from the head of Brahma assumed the form of a demon and said to the Lord, “O Lord! now give me
an abode to dwell.”
Brahma replied, “O demon! go and dwell in the rice particles eaten by men on Ekadashi day
and become worms in their stomach.”
For this reason rice is prohibited on Ekadashi. If one observes the Ekadashi fast regularly,
Lord Hari is propitiated. All sins are destroyed. The mind is purified. Devotion gradually develops.
Love for God becomes intense. Orthodox people in South India observe complete fasting and vigil
even on ordinary Ekadashi days. For the devotees of Lord Vishnu, every Ekadashi is a very sacred