Vaikuntha Ekadashi: Devotees Seek Vishnu's Abode, Gates Open Dec 30

• Vaikuntha Ekadashi, also known as Pausha Putrada Ekadashi, is a spiritually significant Hindu festival celebrated across India.
• It falls on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight in Dhanu (December-January); Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 is on December 30.
• The festival originates from Lord Vishnu's blessing that observers of Ekadashi will reach Vaikuntha, his divine abode, after his power defeated the demon Murasura.
• Temples like Venkateswara Temple, Ranganathaswamy Temple, and Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple host elaborate festivities, opening the holy Vaikuntha Dwara for darshan.
• Devotees observe strict fasts, recite Vishnu Sahasranama, engage in prayers, meditation, kirtans, and distribute food, seeking spiritual purification.

Why It Matters: Vaikuntha Ekadashi is a major Hindu festival where devotees seek entry to Lord Vishnu's divine abode through fasting and prayers.