Varuthini Ekadashi 2026 Date, Tithi Timings & Significance

Varuthini Ekadashi

Varuthini Ekadashi: The Vratham That Protects Like Armour

Varuthini Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi of Chaitra Bahula (Krishna) Paksha. "Varutha" means armour, and this vratham is believed to shield devotees from troubles like a protective coat. Devotees fast and worship Lord Vishnu, especially in his Varaha form, and break the fast on Dwadashi with parana.

The Story of King Mandhata

The glory of this Ekadashi is told in the Bhavishyottara Purana as a story Sri Krishna narrated to Dharmaraja. King Mandhata was doing tapas on the banks of the Narmada when a bear seized his leg and dragged him into the forest. Bound by his vow, the king did not give in to anger but prayed to Sri Hari. Vishnu appeared and killed the bear with the Sudarshana Chakra, but the king's leg had already been injured. The Lord told him to observe Varuthini Ekadashi at Mathura and worship him as Varaha, and his body would be made whole. The king did so and was restored.

How to Perform the Puja

Eat one sattvic meal on Dashami; on Ekadashi, bathe early and make the sankalpam.
Worship a picture of Vishnu or Varaha Swamy with a tulasi garland, yellow flowers and sandal paste.
Chant Vishnu Sahasranamam and read a chapter of the Bhagavad Gita. Offer fruits, milk and jaggery.
Light lamps in the evening and spend part of the night in bhajans (jagarana).
On Dwadashi, after sunrise and while Dwadashi tithi lasts, take tulasi theertham and do parana.

Vratham Rules

By tradition, rice, grains, onion and garlic are avoided on Ekadashi. The Purana advises those observing this vratham to stay away from gambling, anger, gossip and lies on this day. Annadanam and vidyadanam (helping someone learn) are considered especially meritorious. Those with health concerns, pregnant women and the elderly may observe it with fruits and milk.

Significance

This Ekadashi devoted to Varaha comes as Vaishakha approaches, making it a fine day for Telugu devotees to remember Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy of Simhachalam. The jayanti of Vallabhacharya, founder of the Pushti Marga tradition, is also celebrated on this Ekadashi.

May the merit of Varuthini Ekadashi be Sri Hari's protective armour for you and your family.

Frequently asked questions

When is Varuthini Ekadashi?

Varuthini Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi tithi of Chaitra Bahula Paksha. It is the Ekadashi that follows Kamada Ekadashi.

What does Varuthini mean?

Varutha means armour. This Ekadashi is believed to protect devotees from troubles like a shield, which is how it got its name.

Which deity is worshipped on Varuthini Ekadashi?

Lord Vishnu, especially in his Varaha form, is worshipped on this day. Chanting Vishnu Sahasranamam and offering tulasi are recommended.

Why is rice avoided on Ekadashi?

Tradition prescribes avoiding rice and grains on Ekadashi so that the fast keeps the mind focused on God. Fruits, milk and tubers can be taken.

How is Varuthini Ekadashi parana done?

On Dwadashi, after sunrise and before Dwadashi tithi ends, take tulasi theertham and break the fast with a sattvic meal.

Is Varuthini Ekadashi related to Vallabhacharya?

Yes, the jayanti of Vallabhacharya, founder of the Pushti Marga tradition, is celebrated on Varuthini Ekadashi.

Varuthini Ekadashi 2026

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