Every fast has its own importance and benefits as per the Hindu scriptures. It is believed that keeping a fast brings the divine blessings of the Lord and showers the devotees with happiness and prosperity. Ekadashi Vrat holds a very significant place among all the fasts.

In Hinduism, Ekadashi is a very auspicious day that holds great importance. Every month, there are two Ekadashis. Ekadashi (11th) day of Krishna Paksha (Waning Moon Period) of Margashirsha month (November-December) as per the Hindu Calendar is called Utpanna Ekadashi. It is said that Devotees observe this fast to absolve sins and misdeeds of the past and receive huge benefits.

It is believed that the Ekadashi fast helps to get rid of all sins and attain salvation. So, let’s get to know more about Date, Vrat Katha, Puja Vidhi, and the Benefits of fasting on Utpanna Ekadashi 2023.

Utpanna Ekadashi 2023: Date, Muhurat and Timings

In the year 2023, Varuthini Ekadashi will be celebrated on Friday, December 8.

Ekadashi Tithi Starts: 05:06 a.m on December 08, 2023
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 06:31 a.m on December 09, 2023
Vaishnava Utpanna Ekadashi on Saturday, December 9, 2023
Parana Tithi (breaking fast) of Ekadashi: December 10 between 07:03 a.m. to 07:13 a.m.

Significance of Utpanna Ekadashi

Utpanna Ekadashi holds significant importance as it marks the inception of Ekadashi fasting. All Ekadashi fasts are devoted to Goddess Ekadashi, a formidable Shakti of Lord Vishnu. Ekadashi originated from Lord Vishnu to vanquish the demon Mur, who sought to harm the slumbering Lord Vishnu. Consequently, Goddess Ekadashi is regarded as one of the protective manifestations of Lord Vishnu. Another potent manifestation is Goddess Vaishnavi, who is part of the Sapta Matrika.

Utpanna Ekadashi is therefore celebrated as the birth anniversary of Ekadashi. Devotees who commit to observing annual fasting commence their Ekadashi fasting on this auspicious day.

Find out how to participate in Ekadashi Puja

Varuthini Ekadashi 2023 Puja Vidhi

On Utpanna Ekadashi, worshipping Lord Vishnu is highly auspicious. Performing puja is not only rewarding but also brings positive energy into the house and helps to eliminate negative energy. So, let’s find below the puja vidhi on Utpanna Ekadashi.

Lord Vishnu is specially worshipped on Ekadashi.
On Utpanna Ekadashi, wake up early morning and take a holy bath. Wear clean clothes.
Then, worship the idol of Lord Vishnu with dhoop, sandalwood paste, fruits, incense sticks, and flowers in order to evoke the deity.
Observe fast on this day by eating fruits.
On the other day, break the fast by eating satvik food.
Utpanna Ekadashi fast initiates from Dashami where the devotees must take their meals before dawn.
On the day of Ekadashi, chant Lord Vishnu mantras and recite songs in honour of the deity.
You can also read ‘Vishnu Sahastranaam’ to get bestowed with the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Listen to the Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat Story to accomplish their fast. You can read the story given below or listen to it through online audiobooks.
The fast concludes after donating food, clothes and other essentials to a Brahmin.

Find how to perform Satyanarayan Vrat Katha

Varuthini Ekadashi Mantra

The mantra ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’’ should be chanted 108 times if possible using a Tulsi Mala.

Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat Katha

It is said that Lord Krishna had narrated Ekadashi Vrat Kathas to Pandava King Yudhishthira to help him gain wisdom and enlightenment. And here’s the detail about Varuthini Ekadashi Vrat Katha.

During the period of Ekadashi, individuals observe fasting rituals to seek the favour of Goddess Ekadashi, a revered Shakti of Lord Vishnu.

According to a legend, the Devatas faced a formidable challenge in dealing with the demon Murasura, and despite their efforts, they were unable to subdue him. Turning to Lord Vishnu for assistance, they engaged in a prolonged battle against the ruthless demon. Eventually, after years of combat, Lord Vishnu sought respite within a cave. Seizing the opportunity, Murasura pursued him, attempting to defeat the Lord.

During this critical moment, Ekadashi manifested from Lord Vishnu, thwarting the demon’s attempt to harm the sleeping god. As a result, Mata Ekadashi is revered as one of the protective manifestations of Lord Vishnu. Another significant deity associated with Lord Vishnu is Goddess Vaishnavi, a member of the Sapta Matrika.

When Lord Vishnu asked the Goddess about her wishes, Ekadashi wished for three boons, as follows:

Mata Ekadashi will always be recognised as supreme and hold a special place in Lord Vishnu’s affection.
She would possess the highest significance among all Tithis (days) and have the power to absolve individuals of their past sins.
Ekadashi would have the ability to bestow good health, wealth, and prosperity upon those observing fasts on this auspicious day.

Lord Vishnu granted all three boons, emphasizing the importance of worshipping Mata Ekadashi on this sacred occasion.