What is Vaikunth Ekadasi? A unique opportunity to attain liberation or moksha

What is Vaikunth Ekadasi? Vaikuntha Ekadasi has widely become one of the most celebrated days in the Hindu calendar. It takes place on the 11th day of the waxing moon during the Margashirsha month (December-January). This day holds significance for Hindus because it is believed that fasting and prayer will purify the soul and allow entry into Vaikuntha, the abode of God Vishnu. It is considered a unique opportunity by devotees to attain liberation or moksha.

In Hindu mythology, the Padma Purana recounts the battle between Lord Vishnu and a demon named Muran. Exhausted, Vishnu sought rest in a cave, where a divine female emerged from him and defeated the demon. Vishnu named her Ekadashi and granted her a boon—whoever fasts on this day would be absolved of their sins and granted access to Vaikuntha.

Another story from the Vishnu Purana tells how Vishnu opened the gates of Vaikuntha to two demons, granting them salvation. This inspired the tradition of constructing Vaikunta Dwaras in temples, which are opened on Vaikunth Ekadasi to offer devotees a chance to walk through and receive the blessing of entry into Vaikuntha.

Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam
One of the central rituals during Vaikunth Ekadasi is the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, where the sacred Vaikunta Dwaram (gateway to Lord Vishnu’s realm) at the Tirumala temple is opened. The gate remains closed throughout the year but opens on this auspicious day, symbolizing the entry to salvation and spiritual renewal. Devotees believe that walking through this gate on Vaikunth Ekadasi absolves them of their sins and brings divine blessings.

As the gates are opened, a special procession takes place, and the Vaikunta Dwaram is elaborately decorated. The temple attracts a massive number of devotees, who come from across India and abroad to witness the sacred event. Due to the overwhelming crowd, the TTD distributes ‘darshan’ tokens to manage the large number of pilgrims efficiently and ensure orderly participation in the Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam.