Varuthini Ekadashi Shriman Narayana Seva

Ekadashi, observed on the 11th day of both the waxing and waning lunar phases, holds deep spiritual significance in Sanatana Dharma. It is a sacred day dedicated to the worship of Bhagwan Vishnu, when devotees observe fasting, prayer, and self-discipline to purify the body, mind, and soul. According to legend, Ekadashi personified as a divine energy emerged from Bhagwan Vishnu to destroy sins and grant liberation. Observing Ekadashi is said to wash away past karmas, grant inner peace, and accelerate one’s spiritual evolution. Fasting on this day enhances sattvic (pure) qualities, controls desires, and aligns the devotee with divine consciousness. It is believed that the merit earned on Ekadashi surpasses that of even grand yajnas (sacrifices), making it one of the most potent observances to seek Bhagwan Vishnu’s grace, material blessings, and ultimately moksha (liberation).

Varuthini Ekadashi is a highly auspicious Hindu fasting day observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) during the month of Vaishakha (April–May). This Ekadashi is believed to bring protection, prosperity, and spiritual merit to those who observe it sincerely.

Varuthini Ekadashi Katha

The Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat Katha (legend) is told byBhagwan Shri Krishna to King Yudhishthira in the Bhavishya Purana.

Once, there was a righteous king named Mandata, a devout and generous ruler. Due to past karmic deeds, he was cursed and transformed into a one-legged, deformed creature. With deep devotion, he undertook the Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat. Pleased by his sincere penance and fasting, Shri Vishnu restored his original form, freeing him from his curse and suffering.

This tale illustrates the transformative power of this Ekadashi—it not only redeems sins but can also heal and elevate one's life.

Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi

• "Varuthini" means "protected" or "armored", indicating the protective energy this Ekadashi bestows upon its observers.
• It is primarily dedicated to Shri Vamana, an avatar of Bhagwan Shri Vishnu.
• Observing this fast is believed to remove bad karma, protect from evil influences, and enhance one's fortune in this life and beyond.
• Spiritually, it is considered a time to practice self-discipline, charity, and devotion, all of which purify the soul.

Benefits of Observing Varuthini Ekadashi

• Freedom from Sin: It is believed to absolve even grave sins, such as those committed unknowingly in past lives.
• Spiritual Growth: Fasting purifies the body and mind, creating a conducive state for meditation and devotion.
• Divine Protection: Observers receive the blessings of Shri Vishnu, which shield them from negativity and misfortunes.
• Improved Karma: Acts of charity and righteousness on this day amplify good karma.
• Prosperity and Peace: It brings balance, prosperity, and inner peace to households and individuals.
• Health Benefits: Abstaining from food and indulgences for a day gives rest to the digestive system and resets physical discipline.

How to Observe Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat

• Begin with a Sankalp (vow) the night before.
• Observe a strict fast, ideally Nirjala (without water), or with fruits and milk.
• Avoid tamasic food (onion, garlic, meat, alcohol, etc.)
• Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, read the Ekadashi Katha, and engage in bhajans.
• Stay awake at night, if possible, in prayer and devotion.
• Donate food, clothes, or money to Brahmins or the needy.

JyotirGamaya will be conducting Vishesha Ekadashi sevas to Bhagwan Shri Mahavishnu along with Sridevi and Bhudevi on the sacred day of Ekadashi, when the divine energies are at their peak.

Detailed Seva Description

Sevakarthas can now book these sacred Ekadashi Sevas online and participate in the divine celebrations from the comfort of their own homes. Witness the LIVE Sevas directly from the Temple, feel the vibrations of the sacred chants, and receive the divine blessings of Bhagwan Shri Mahavishnu, Sridevi, and Bhudevi - no matter where you are in the world.

1. Panchamrut Abhisheka

Ritual bath with five nectars: milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar

Significance:

• Symbolizes purification and sanctification of the deity.
• The five nectars represent the five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas), harmonizing the devotee with nature and divinity.
• It is said to cool the body and mind of the deity and of the devotee as well, spiritually aligning their energies.

Benefits:

• Cleanses the karmas of the devotee performing or sponsoring it.
• Bestows health, wealth, and longevity.
• Brings emotional stability and spiritual progress.
• It purifies the heart and mind, making it a perfect start to the Ekadashi rituals.

2. Tulasi Mala Samarpan & Tulasi Archana Seva

Offering a garland of sacred Tulasi leaves and performing archana with Tulasi.

Significance:

• Tulasi is considered the most beloved to Bhagwan Vishnu; she is his consort in divine form.
• Offering Tulasi is equivalent to offering millions of gold coins in spiritual merit.
• Archana with Tulasi multiplies the blessings manifold on Ekadashi.

Benefits:

• Destroys sins and grants punya (spiritual merit).
• Protects from misfortunes, negativity, and health issues.
• Helps in removal of obstacles, both material and spiritual.
• Strengthens devotion (Bhakti Yoga) and purifies the heart chakra.

3. Alankara Seva with Fresh Fragrant Flowers including Tulasi & Lotus

Significance:

• Alankara (decoration) is not just for beauty — it is an expression of love and devotion. Bhagwan Vishnu is said to be “Alankara Priya” (fond of decoration).
• Lotus is the symbol of purity, detachment, and divine birth (Bhagwan Vishnu resides on the lotus of universal consciousness).
• Fresh flowers represent the devotee’s fresh, pure intentions offered to the Lord.

Benefits:

• Pleases the Divine and invites grace into the devotee’s home and heart.
• Brings joy, inner peace, and harmonizes relationships.
• Helps in removal of inner impurities - ego, pride, jealousy, etc.
• Enhances the spiritual atmosphere around the devotee.

4. Maha Mangalarti

Grand aarti performed with deep devotion, usually involving ghee lamps, camphor, and music

Significance:

• Mangalarti means invoking the auspicious presence of the Divine.
• It is the culmination of the worship, symbolizing the Bhagwan showering his blessings back upon the devotees.
• The flame represents divine knowledge, removing darkness (ignorance).

Benefits:

• Fills the devotee with positive energy, removing fears and doubts.
• Invokes the presence of all gods and goddesses, as they are believed to attend a full-hearted aarti.
• Ensures protection and prosperity for the family.
• Deepens the spiritual connection with Vishnu, Sridevi, and Bhudevi in that moment. 

5. Vishnu Sahasranama Patan

Recitation of the 1,000 holy names of Shri Vishnu

Significance:

• One of the most powerful spiritual practices in Sanatana Dharma.
• Each name reflects a different divine quality of Bhagwan Vishnu.
• It is said in the Mahabharata that chanting Vishnu Sahasranama is the most effective path to liberation (moksha).

Benefits:

• Destroys sins and past karmas.
• Grants inner peace, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
• Protects from dangers, diseases, and enemies.
• Strengthens the power of the soul (Atma Bal) and promotes spiritual awakening.
• Creates a shield of divine protection around the devotee. 

6. Naivedya (Bhog) offering of coconut & fruits

Offering Naivedya or Bhog to Bhagwan Shri Mahavishnu along with Sridevi and Bhudevi, especially on Ekadashi, is an essential and sacred part of seva. Each item offered carries deep symbolic meaning and spiritual benefits. On Ekadashi, grains and heavy food are avoided even for Naivedya, since it's a day of sattvic elevation. Hence, fruits, dry fruits, and coconut are the most appropriate offerings  - aligning with both scriptural guidance and energetic purity.

Significance:

• Coconut (Sriphala – the Divine Fruit):
  • Coconut is known as "Shriphala", meaning "fruit of the gods".
  • Symbolizes self-surrender — the hard shell (ego) is broken to offer the pure white heart (the soul) to the Lord.
  • It represents purity, prosperity, and spiritual awakening.
  • In many traditions, coconut is offered before any auspicious beginning and is also placed atop Kalash during Vishnu puja.
• Fruits:
  • Fruits are considered natural sattvic offerings - pure, nourishing, and given in their most natural form.
  • They symbolize the fruit of our actions (karma phala) being surrendered to God.
  • Fruits represent gratitude and humble acknowledgment of the Bhagwan as the provider of all nourishment.

Generally the below Fruits are offered for Naivedya on Ekadashi:

• Bananas (symbol of humility and fertility)
• Pomegranate (symbol of auspiciousness and prosperity)
• Apple or Pear (symbolic of sweetness and clarity)
• Grapes or Dates (for divine sweetness and long life)
• Dry fruits like almonds, raisins, and cashews (symbolize strength and richness)

Powerful Blessings from Combined Sevas on Ekadashi

When all these sevas are performed together on Ekadashi to Bhagwan Vishnu along with Sridevi and Bhudevi:

• Body gets purified through fasting and Abhisheka.
• Mind gets stabilized through Tulasi offerings and Sahasranama.
• Heart gets elevated through Alankara and Aarti.
• Soul aligns with divine through devotion and surrender.