Ekadashi holds immense significance in Hinduism as a sacred fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Observed twice a month, on the eleventh day of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) moon phases, Ekadashi fasting is believed to purify the soul and help devotees attain spiritual progress. In April 2025, two Ekadashi observances—Kamada Ekadashi and Varuthini Ekadashi—fall during this period. Here’s a detailed insight into their dates, significance, rituals, and fasting rules.
Kamada Ekadashi 2025: Date and Time
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: April 7, 2025, at 08:00 PM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: April 8, 2025, at 09:12 PM
- Fasting Date: April 8, 2025
- Parana (Breaking the Fast) Time: April 9, 2025, between 06:02 AM and 08:34 AM
Significance of Kamada Ekadashi Kamada Ekadashi is observed during the Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. It is believed that observing this fast helps devotees cleanse their sins and fulfill their desires. According to Hindu mythology, this Ekadashi has the power to liberate individuals from curses and bestow divine blessings.
Rituals for Kamada Ekadashi
- Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast, avoiding grains, pulses, and certain vegetables.
- Worship of Lord Vishnu: Special prayers and bhajans dedicated to Lord Vishnu are performed.
- Charity: Offering food and clothes to the needy is considered highly auspicious.
- Reading Scriptures: Devotees read Vishnu Purana or Bhagavad Gita to seek divine blessings.
- Staying Awake at Night: Many devotees engage in devotional singing and chanting.
Varuthini Ekadashi 2025: Date and Time
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: April 23, 2025, at 04:43 PM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: April 24, 2025, at 02:32 PM
- Fasting Date: April 24, 2025
- Parana (Breaking the Fast) Time: April 25, 2025, between 05:46 AM and 08:23 AM
Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi Varuthini Ekadashi falls during the Krishna Paksha of Vaishakha month. It is believed that those who observe this fast with devotion are blessed with happiness, prosperity, and liberation (moksha). This Ekadashi is particularly dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Vamana avatar and is said to relieve devotees from hardships and misfortunes.
Rituals for Varuthini Ekadashi
- Fasting with Devotion: A complete fast is observed, or devotees consume only fruits and milk.
- Offering Prayers: Worship of Lord Vishnu with sacred offerings like tulsi leaves and flowers.
- Recitation of Scriptures: Reading or listening to the Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Avoiding Negative Actions: Abstaining from anger, lying, and indulgence in material pleasures.
- Charitable Acts: Donating food and essentials to the poor and Brahmins.
General Rules for Observing Ekadashi Vrat
- Avoid consuming rice, wheat, and lentils.
- Refrain from consuming onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food.
- Maintain a positive and peaceful mindset.
- Engage in devotional practices like mantra chanting and meditation.
- Break the fast on the next day (Dwadashi) at the appropriate Parana time.
