By Pt. Narendra Sharma
Sacred Fast Dedicated to Lord Vishnu: Date, Time and Benefits

Vaikuntha Ekadashi is one of the most sacred Ekadashi fasts dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is observed in the Dhanu month and holds profound spiritual significance for devotees. Those who observe the fast with devotion receive the blessing of the Vaikuntha Dwar opening, leading to salvation, peace and prosperity.
The fast for Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 will be observed on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. This information is highly useful for devotees. Parana time and other important timings are as follows.
| Event | Date and Time |
|---|---|
| Vaikuntha Ekadashi | Wednesday, December 31, 2025 |
| Parana Time | 07:14 AM to 09:18 AM on January 1 |
| Ekadashi Tithi Begins | 07:50 AM on December 30, 2025 |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends | 05:00 AM on December 31, 2025 |
| Smartha Vaikuntha Ekadashi | Tuesday, December 30, 2025 |
| Smartha Ekadashi Parana Time | 01:26 PM to 03:31 PM on December 31 |
| Hari Vasara End | 10:12 AM |
These timings are determined according to the panchang. Devotees should follow them carefully.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi is also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi. It occurs in the Dhanu solar month. The belief is that on this day, the gates of Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu, open. Devotees who fast with complete devotion attain liberation from negativity. They get rid of past sins. Spiritual upliftment occurs.
This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. Grand celebrations take place especially at Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam. In Kerala, it is known as Swarga Vathil Ekadashi. In the Tamil calendar, it is associated with the Margazhi month. Lakhs of devotees gather.
Parana means breaking the Ekadashi fast. It must be done correctly. Perform parana after sunrise on Dwadashi tithi. Complete it before Dwadashi ends. Do not perform parana during Hari Vasara. The best time is Pratahkal, the morning. Perform parana in Madhyahna only if compelled. Incorrect parana can nullify the fast's benefits.
Devotees should bathe in the morning, worship Lord Vishnu and then take fruits or sattvic food. This method completes the fast.
Listen to an ancient story. Once, a devotee mistakenly performed parana during Hari Vasara. He regretted it deeply. Sages advised him to observe the fast again. Only then did he attain Vaikuntha. Such stories inspire devotees to remain cautious.
Observing this fast brings the grace of Lord Vishnu to devotees. Salvation becomes attainable. Peace and prosperity dwell in the home. Negative energies are removed. Sins from past lives are destroyed. Spiritual progress accelerates.
During the fast, engage in bhajans and kirtans. Charity holds special importance. Donate grains, fruits or clothes. This multiplies the merits. Regular practice brings stability to life. Many devotees share that this fast transformed their lives. Difficulties vanished.
Begin the fast from the start of Ekadashi tithi. Observe nirjala or fruit fast. Install an idol of Lord Vishnu. Offer tulsi leaves. Light lamps. Perform abhisheka with panchamrit. Participate in night vigil. Recite Bhagavata Purana or Vishnu Sahasranama.
Listen to katha in the morning. Feed Brahmins. Give donations. These rituals perfect the fast. Devotees should follow them with full devotion.
Puranas describe that on Vaikuntha Ekadashi, the gates of heaven remain open for devotees. Those who seize this opportunity cross the ocean of worldly existence. This belief has prevailed for centuries. Lakhs of devotees flock to Tirupati temple for darshan. The gates are specially decorated. The atmosphere resounds with chants.
Continue devotion to Lord Vishnu even after the fast. Adopt sattvic living in daily life. This makes the benefits lasting. Celebrate this festival with family. Narrate stories to children. Connect the next generation to the tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025?
It will be observed on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
What is the Parana Time?
Perform parana from 07:14 AM to 09:18 AM on January 1.
What is the Difference Between Smartha and Vaishnava Dates?
Smartha observe on December 30, Vaishnava on December 31.
What to Eat During the Fast?
Observe fruit fast or nirjala. Consume only sattvic food.
Can Milk be Consumed During Parana?
Yes, sattvic items like milk or fruits can be taken during parana.
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