Glories of Varuthini Ekadashi

As narrated by Lord Krishna in the Padma Purana to Maharaja Yudhishthira

Maharaja Yudhishthira once humbly inquired from Lord Krishna:

"O Janardana, please describe to me the merits of the Ekadashi that falls in the dark fortnight of the month of Vaishakha (April–May). What is its name, and what benefits does one receive by observing it?"

Lord Sri Krishna replied:

O King! Varuthini Ekadashi is extremely auspicious, rare, and purifying. Fasting on this day destroys all sins, grants fortune, protects from evil influences, and paves the way to liberation.

The Story of Kind Mandata

There once was a great and noble king named Mandhata, renowned for his piety and adherence to dharma. Although he ruled his kingdom wisely, he desired liberation from material existence. On the advice of learned sages, he strictly observed Varuthini Ekadashi.

By doing so with complete devotion—engaging in fasting, prayer, and remembrance of Lord Vishnu—he was released from all his sins and ultimately attained liberation (moksha), going back to the eternal abode of Lord Hari.

The Redemption of King Dhundhumara

Another glorious example is that of King Dhundhumara, a member of the prestigious Ikshvaku dynasty. He was once cursed by Lord Shiva due to an offense and was afflicted with leprosy as a result.

Struck by intense suffering and shame, he wandered helplessly until he encountered saintly sages who advised him to observe Varuthini Ekadashi with sincerity and strictness.

King Dhundhumara fasted and stayed awake all night glorifying Lord Vishnu. Through the power of that one sacred observance, the king was miraculously freed from his curse, regained his health, and his kingdom, and attained the mercy of the Lord.

Merits of Observing Varuthini Ekadashi

• Equal to ten thousand years of austere penance.

• Greater than giving gold in charity during a solar eclipse.

• More beneficial than donating land, elephants, sesame, gold, or food grains.

• All such merits are easily attained by observing Varuthini Ekadashi with devotion.

Even one who hears or reads these glories receives the merit of donating one thousand cows, and is assured of reaching the Vaikuntha planets, the eternal spiritual realm.