Varuthini Ekadashi 2026: Date, Rituals, and Auspicious Donations
The month of April is marked by several significant Hindu festivals, from Hanuman Jayanti to Akshay Tritiya. Among these, the first Ekadashi of the month holds special reverence. Known as Varuthini Ekadashi, this sacred day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to absolve devotees of all sins. Each month, both the Shukla (waxing) and Krishna (waning) phases feature an Ekadashi tithi devoted to Lord Vishnu. On this day, acts of charity—such as donating food, clothing, and water—are considered highly meritorious.
The Significance of Varuthini Ekadashi
Varuthini Ekadashi falls during the Krishna Paksha of the Vaishakh month. Observing this fast is said to cleanse the soul and bring divine blessings. Devotees worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, seeking forgiveness and spiritual upliftment. The name “Varuthini” itself implies protection, and the fast is believed to shield the observer from negative influences and past misdeeds.
Date and Auspicious Timings for Varuthini Ekadashi 2026
The Ekadashi tithi of Vaishakh Krishna Paksha begins on the night of April 13 at 1:16 AM and concludes on April 14 at 1:08 AM. Based on these timings, the Varuthini Ekadashi fast will be observed on April 13, 2026.
- Ekadashi Tithi Start: April 13, 1:16 AM (night)
- Ekadashi Tithi End: April 14, 1:08 AM (night)
- Fast Date: April 13, 2026
Auspicious Yoga and Nakshatra on Varuthini Ekadashi
This year, Varuthini Ekadashi coincides with two favorable yogas. The Shubha yoga will prevail from early morning until 5:17 PM, after which the Shukla yoga begins. Additionally, the Dhanishta nakshatra will be active from dawn until 4:03 PM, followed by the Shatabhisha nakshatra. These celestial alignments enhance the spiritual potency of the day.
Optimal Timings for Varuthini Ekadashi Puja
Devotees can perform the puja during two specific windows on April 13. The first slot is considered the most auspicious, while the second is also highly favorable.
- First Muhurta: 5:58 AM to 7:34 AM (Amrit-Sarvottam)
- Second Muhurta: 9:10 AM to 10:46 AM (Shubh-Uttam)
Bath Timing (Snan Muhurta): The Brahma Muhurta for a holy bath is from 4:28 AM to 5:13 AM.
Abhijit Muhurta: This auspicious window occurs from 11:56 AM to 12:47 PM.
Parana (Breaking the Fast) Timing
If the fast is observed on April 13, the parana (breaking the fast) should be done on April 14. The ideal time for parana is between 6:54 AM and 8:31 AM. The Hari Vasara period ends at 6:54 AM on the parana day, and it is considered auspicious to break the fast only after this time.
Recommended Donations on Varuthini Ekadashi
Charity holds great importance on Varuthini Ekadashi. Donating specific items is believed to multiply the spiritual benefits and bring prosperity. Devotees are encouraged to offer the following:
- Grains and food items to the needy
- Clothing, especially white or yellow garments
- Water pots or drinking water
- Umbrellas and footwear
- Ghee, sesame seeds, and jaggery
- Gold or silver as per capacity
These acts of giving are said to please Lord Vishnu and attract divine grace. The combination of fasting, prayer, and charity on this day is considered a complete spiritual practice.
Puja Vidhi for Varuthini Ekadashi
The puja ritual begins with a pre-dawn bath, preferably during Brahma Muhurta. Devotees should clean the home and set up a small altar with an idol or image of Lord Vishnu. Offerings include sandalwood paste, incense, flowers, fruits, and a lamp ghee or oil. Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama or chanting the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” is highly recommended. Many devotees also observe a full day fast, consuming only water or fruits, and break it the next morning after the prescribed parana time.
Varuthini Ekadashi offers a powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal and the forgiveness of past transgressions. By observing the fast, performing sincere worship, and engaging in charity, devotees can invite peace, prosperity, and divine protection into their lives.
