Varuthini Ekadashi 2025: Correct date, timings, vrat katha, rituals, and all one needs to know

Ekadashis are one of the most respected and revered festivals for Hindus across the world, and especially people of the Vaishnava sect. Ekadashi is observed twice in a month, in the waning and waxing phase of the moon, the Shukla and Krishna Paksh, and tomorrow we have Varuthini Ekadashi, falling on the 11th day of the waning phase of the moon.
It is believed that observing and fasting on Varuthini Ekadashi gives people protection, fortune, and strength.

In 2025, Varuthini Ekadashi will be observed on Thursday, April 24.
According to Drik Panchang, “On 25th Apr, Parana Time - 05:46 AM to 08:23 AM
On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 11:44 AMEkadashi Tithi Begins - 04:43 PM on Apr 23, 2025Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 02:32 PM on Apr 24, 2025”As tithi begins after Brahma Muhurat, and post 12 PM on April 23, Ekadashi will be observed on the next day, that is, April 24.

Hindus all over the world and followers of lord Vishnu celebrate and observe Varuthini Ekadashi with great devotion and purpose. Devotees pray for divine protection, blessings in life, ‘Punya’, which is basically good deeds and karma, and to live life with peace and love.
It is believed that observing this fast removes negative energies, and even frees a person from the effects of bad karma from their previous lives.

According to Drik Panchang and other sources and legends, the story of Varuthini Ekadashi goes back to King Mandata. It is said that he ruled his kingdom wisely and was loved by his people, and everything was going fine in life. But one day, as she meditated in the forest, a bear chopped off one of his legs, cursing him to lose a body part. Worried, the King seeked help and guidance from sages and saints, and then he was advised to keep a fast on Varuthini Ekadashi. It is believed that a great Saint told him that he was punished for his past life deeds, and by praying to Lord Vishnu on Ekadashi, he can remove his bad karma.

The rituals followed on Varuthini Ekadashi are similar to the other Ekadashis that fall in an year. Devotees wake up early, preferably in the Brahma Muhurat, and then cleanse themselves with some water and Gangajal. The Puja room or the home temple is then cleaned well, including the ‘sthaan’ of the Gods, and every idol, image, and murti, is cleaned before starting the puja.
Then devotees offer flowers, fruits, incense, and tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu, and then light a diya while chanting mantras and hymns.

One of the most important parts of Ekadashi rituals is fasting and worshipping. People keep a Nirjala vrat (no food or water) or a no-grain fast depending on their beliefs and what they can do, and most only sustain on water, milk, and some fruits.
It is important to remember that when fasting or observing the Ekadashi, people should not consume any Tamsic foods, especially ones that are indulgent or heavy to the stomach. It is also important to remember that people should avoid any negative thoughts, anger, or gossip during this time as it is against spiritual ethos.