Happy New Year 2025

Tag: Observe

  • Black History Month 2025 Messages: Share Powerful Quotes, HD Wallpapers, Images and Sayings To Observe African American Heritage Month

    Black History Month 2025 Messages: Share Powerful Quotes, HD Wallpapers, Images and Sayings To Observe African American Heritage Month

    Black History Month is celebrated every year in the month of February. Black History Month 2025 will be observed from February 1 to February 28. It is celebrated in various countries, especially in Canada and the US, where it is also called the African-American Heritage Month. The month is celebrated every February to honour the achievements, history, and culture of African Americans. It is a time to reflect on all the struggles they faced as well as the contributions they have made to society. This month-long observance highlights the importance of recognising the challenges of racism and injustice while celebrating the strides we have made towards equality. To celebrate this month, share Black History Month 2025 messages. Black History Month 2025 Theme, History and Significance: When Is African American Heritage Month? Know About the Key Observance in February To Celebrate the African Diaspora.

    African Americans have made many contributions to several fields like music, arts, science, and politics. Black History Month reminds us to appreciate diversity and raise awareness about the stories of African Americans and continue to fight for positive changes. During this time, people celebrate the accomplishments of figures like Martin Luther King Jr, Rosa Parks, and more. They have played a key role in the civil rights movement. It is important to learn about them and their lives in order to understand the importance of equality and justice for all. To join in raising awareness and celebrating the month, share thoughtful messages. To help, we have curated a list of Black History Month 2025 quotes and sayings and African American Heritage Month images and wallpapers you can easily download for free online and share via Facebook or WhatsApp. Black History Month 2024 Theme, History and Significance: Know All About the Important Observance in February To Celebrate African-American History Month.

    Black History Month Quotes

    Black History Month (Photo Credits: File Photo)

    Black History Month Messages

    Black History Month (Photo Credits: File Image)

    Black History Month Images

    Black History Month (Photo Credits: Pixabay)

    This Black History Month 2025, let us take the time to reflect on the struggles, achievements, and impacts of the African Americans throughout history. Let’s understand and learn more about them and their lives and continue working toward a more just and equal society for all.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 01, 2025 07:37 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).


  • Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates: Ghatasthapana Tithi, Pratipada Timings, Significance and Rituals To Observe the 9-Day Navratri Festival

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates: Ghatasthapana Tithi, Pratipada Timings, Significance and Rituals To Observe the 9-Day Navratri Festival

    Magha Gupt Navratri is an auspicious nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to all the nine-forms of Goddess Durga. This Navratri is also known as Gupta Navratri. It falls in the month of Magh which corresponds to the month of January or February in the Gregorian calendar. Magh Navratri, which is less known in most places, is mainly observed in North Indian states like Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 starts from Thursday, January 30, and continue till Friday, February 7. In this article, let’s know more about Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 start and end dates, auspicious timings, rituals and the significance of the annual nine-day Navratri festival. Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Start and End Dates: From Ghatasthapana to Navami, Check Full Calendar of the Navratri Festival With Puja Vidhi and Significance. 

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 Dates and Auspicious Timings

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025 starts from Thursday, January 30, and continue till Friday, February 7. The Magha Ghatasthapana muhurat is from 09:41 AM to 10:59 AM on January 30. The Pratipada tithi for Ghatasthapana 2025 begins at 06:05 PM on January 29 and will go on till 04:10 PM on January 30.

    Magha Gupt Navratri 2025: Day-Wise Dates

    • Pratipada: Ghatasthapana, Shailputri Puja – January 30

    • Dwitiya: Brahmacharini Puja – January 31

    • Tritiya: Chandraghanta Puja – February 1

    • Chaturthi: Kushmanda Puja, Skandamata Puja – February 2

    • Shashthi: Katyayani Puja – February 3

    • Saptami: Kalaratri Puja – February 4

    • Ashtami: Durga Ashtami, Mahagauri Puja, Sandhi Puja – February 5

    • Navami: Siddhidatri Puja – February 6

    • Dashami: Navratri Parana – February 7

    Magha Gupt Navratri Significance and Rituals

    Magha Gupta Navratri is considered ‘Gupta’ meaning secret or hidden. This Navratri is not as widely celebrated as the Chaitra Navratri or Sharadiya Navratri, but holds immense spiritual significance for people in India. While Gupta Navratri is not widely celebrated, it is observed in regions in North India.

    According to religious beliefs, devotees who worship Goddess Shakti on all nine days of Magha Gupta Navratri are blessed with health, wealth, and peace. On this day, devotees engage in charity, including donating blankets, clothes, food, and other essentials to the needy.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2025 05:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2025 Messages and Quotes: Netizens Share Thoughtful Posts, Images, Wallpapers and Sayings To Observe the Day

    International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2025 Messages and Quotes: Netizens Share Thoughtful Posts, Images, Wallpapers and Sayings To Observe the Day

    The International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust, also known as the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, is observed every year across the globe. The International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2025 falls on Monday, January 27. It is a time to remember the millions of Jewish people and millions of others who faced many atrocities and were killed during the Holocaust. This day is observed in order to remind us of the horrors of hatred, discrimination, and violence. It encourages everyone around the world to learn from history and never repeat such an incident again. It also encourages people to work towards a world of peace, justice, equality, and respect for all. By honouring the victims of the Holocaust, we are pledging never to forget them and to fight against injustice. To observe the day and raise awareness, netizens took to social media to share International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2025 messages, quotes, posts, sayings, HD images, and wallpapers. International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust 2025 Date: Know History and Significance of the UN Day To Honour the Victims of the Holocaust.

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Messages

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Quotes

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Posts

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Sayings

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Videos

    International Holocaust Remembrance Day Images

    (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter (X), Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user’s social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)

  • Masik Shivratri 2025 Date in January: Know Auspicious Tithi, Significance and Vrat Rituals To Observe the Day Dedicated to the Worshipping of Lord Shiva

    Masik Shivratri 2025 Date in January: Know Auspicious Tithi, Significance and Vrat Rituals To Observe the Day Dedicated to the Worshipping of Lord Shiva

    Masik Shivratri is an auspicious day that falls every month when devotees worship Lord Shiva. The day of Masik Shivratri is celebrated every month on the Chaturdashi Tithi of the Krishna Paksha, is a significant occasion dedicated to Lord Shiva. In January 2025, Masik Shivaratri falls on Monday, January 27. The auspicious tithi begins at 11:04 PM on January 27 and will end at 10:05 PM on January 28. This day is a perfect time for devotees to seek blessings, offer prayers, and express gratitude to Lord Shiva. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar. 

    The festival of Shivratri marks the convergence of Shiva and Shakti. Each month, Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha is known as Masik Shivaratri. Unlike the annual Maha Shivaratri, Masik Shivaratri is a monthly celebration and is observed with great devotion by followers of Lord Shiva. In this article, let’s know more about the Masik Shivaratri 2025 date, tithi timings, the significance and rituals of the day dedicated to the worshipping of Lord Shiva.

    Masik Shivratri 2025 Date

    Masik Shivratri 2025 falls on Monday, January 27.

    Masik Shivratri 2025 Timings

    The Masik Shivratri tithi begins at 11:04 PM on January 27 and will end at 10:05 PM on January 28.

    Masik Shivratri Significance

    Masik Shivratri holds great significance for the devotees of Lord Shiva and is celebrated with great devotion across India. On this day, devotees observe fast and offer prayers, especially during the Nishita Kaal, considered the most auspicious time for worship.

    On this auspicious day, devotees visit Lord Shiva temples to seek blessings of the Lord and perform special rituals and pujas to honour Lord Shiva. Devotees chant mantra, offer milk, honey, and Bilva leaves to the Shiva Linga. It is believed that observing Masik Shivaratri can help them attain inner peace, spiritual growth, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 27, 2025 05:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Paush Purnima 2025 Date: What Is the Significance of Paush Purnima Upavasa? Purnima Tithi, Moonrise Time and Fasting Rituals To Observe the Holy Day

    Paush Purnima 2025 Date: What Is the Significance of Paush Purnima Upavasa? Purnima Tithi, Moonrise Time and Fasting Rituals To Observe the Holy Day

    Paush Purnima 2025 is on January 13. As the name suggests, the celebration commemorates the full moon day in the month of Magha and is usually the day that Kumbh Mela begins. It is customary for devotees to celebrate this day by observing a stringent fast. Some parts of India celebrate Paush Purnima as Shakambhari Purnima. As we prepare to observe Paush Purnima Upavasa 2025, here is everything you need to know about Paush Purnima and how to celebrate this day. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year. 

    Paush Purnima 2025 Date, Tithi and Moonrise Time

    Paush Purnima 2025 is on January 13. Purnima Tithi for Paush Purnima Upavasa begins at 05:03 AM on January 13, 2025, and will go on till 03:56 AM on January 14, 2025. On this day, it is customary for devotees to observe the Paush Purnima Upvasa, which is only broken at moonrise time. Shukla Purnima Moonrise on Purnima Upavasa Day will be at 05:47 PM on January 13.

    Paush Purnima Upavasa Rituals and Significance

    The observance of Paush Purnima Upvasa is observed to offer one’s prayers to the Sun and Moon gods and devotees often perform special prayers and rituals on this day. People also recite the Paush Purnima Upavasa Katha on this day. People often believe that observing this day can help them to achieve their dream of becoming a parent. The celebration of Paush Purnima Upvas begins by waking up early in the morning, taking a holy dip in the river or pod and observing the stringent day-long fast. The celebration of the festival continues on with the reciting of the story, preparing special delicacies and coming together as a community. People go on to break their fast at moonrise, by doing another important puja. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    People also believe that indulging in acts of charity, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, and offering prayers to the sun and moon gods on this day will help people to achieve their dreams. We hope that Paush Purnima brings with it hope and happiness to you and your family.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 13, 2025 07:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • When Is Magha Ghatasthapana 2025? Know Pratipada Tithi, Ghatasthapana Muhurat, Rituals and Significance To Observe the First Day of Magha Gupta Navratri

    When Is Magha Ghatasthapana 2025? Know Pratipada Tithi, Ghatasthapana Muhurat, Rituals and Significance To Observe the First Day of Magha Gupta Navratri

    Magha Gupt Navaratri is an important nine-day celebration that is focused on celebrating the beginning of a new season and is one of the less prominently celebrated Navratri celebrations. Magha Gupta Navratri 2025 will be observed from January 30 and go on till February 7. The Magha Ghatasthapana focuses on the invocation of Goddess Shakti, on the first day of Magha Gupt Navratri. As we prepare to observe Magha Ghatasthapana 2025 on January 30, here is everything you need to know about this day, how to celebrate Magha Ghatasthapana and its significance. Sharad Navratri 2025 Full Calendar With Dates of Ghatasthapana and Dussehra: Check Schedule of Shardiya Navratri Dedicated to Goddess Durga. 

    When is Magha Ghatasthapana 2025?

    Magha Ghatasthapana is usually done on the first day of Magh Gupt Navratri. Magha Ghatasthapana will be conducted on January 30, as it marks the Magha Pratipada. The Pratipada tithi for Magha Ghatasthapana 2025 begins – 06:05 PM on January 29 and will go on till 04:10 PM on January 30. The Ghatasthapana Puja is conducted during an auspicious time on Pratipada muhurat. The Ghatasthapana Muhurat for Magha Ghatasthapana 2025 will be from 09:41 AM to 10:59 AM on January 30. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Magha Ghatasthapana Rituals and Significance

    Magha Ghatasthapana is the process followed for the invocation of Goddess Shakti during the celebration of Magh Ghatasthapana. There are four Navaratris that are observances that mark the beginning of each new season. However, there are two main Navaratri celebrations that are more grand and significant – Sharad Navaratri and Chaitra Navratri. Magha Navaratri is one of the more silent Navratri celebrations that is marked in the month of Magha. Ghatasthapana is one of the significant rituals during Navratri. It marks the beginning of the nine days of Durga Puja.

    The Magha Ghatasthapana observance is sure to be marked by reading special scriptures, making delicious delicacies for Goddess Shakti and is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Ghatasthapana is also known as Kalash Sthapana or Kalash Sthapana. We hope that the beginning of Magha Gupta Navratri brings with it the happiness and love that you and your family deserves.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 07:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan 2025 in Tamil Date, Time and Shubh Muhurat: How To Observe Thiruvathirai Viratham? Follow 7-Step Puja Vidhi To Celebrate of Lord Shiva’s Cosmic Dance

    Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan 2025 in Tamil Date, Time and Shubh Muhurat: How To Observe Thiruvathirai Viratham? Follow 7-Step Puja Vidhi To Celebrate of Lord Shiva’s Cosmic Dance

    Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan, a significant Tamil festival, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is observed on the day of Arudra Nakshatram, also known as Thiruvaathirai Nakshatram, during the Maargazhi Masam. This day is considered highly auspicious as it coincides with the Pournami (Full Moon), enhancing its spiritual significance. Thiruvathira 2025 date falls on January 13. For many devotees, Arudra Darshan marks the celebration of Lord Shiva’s divine Nataraja form, and it is believed to be the day of Lord Shiva’s cosmic birth. This is in contrast to the Maha Shivaratri festival, which is considered Lord Shiva’s birthday in other parts of India.

    Thiruvathira or Arudra Darshan 2025 Date & Shubh Muhurat

    In 2025, Arudra Darshan will fall on Monday, January 13, with Thiruvathirai Nakshathram beginning at 11:24 AM on January 12 and concluding at 10:38 AM on January 13.

    Arudra Darshan Significance & Importance

    Arudra Darshan holds special importance as it honours Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form, symbolising the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction. The festival is a time for devotees to connect with the divine energy of Lord Shiva and reflect on the eternal cycle of the universe. This celebration is particularly special in Tamil culture, where it is believed that Lord Shiva performed the Ananda Tandava, a celestial dance, to reveal the secrets of the universe. The dance signifies the continuous flow of creation, preservation, and destruction in the cosmic order.

    Thiruvathira Puja Vidhi

    The rituals for Thiruvathira are conducted early in the morning and follow a traditional procedure to honour Lord Shiva. Here’s a detailed guide to the steps involved in the celebration:

    Step 1: Morning Preparations

    Devotees begin the day with a holy bath before sunrise, which is believed to purify the body and soul. Fasting, whether partial or complete, is also a customary practice on this day to aid in spiritual purification.

    Step 2: Setting Up the Altar

    In homes and temples, a sacred altar is prepared with an idol or image of Lord Shiva, preferably in the Nataraja form. The altar is decorated with fresh flowers, and oil lamps are lit to honour the deity, creating an atmosphere of devotion and reverence.

    Step 3: Abhishekam (Holy Bath)

    In temples, priests perform Abhishekam, where the idol of Lord Nataraja is bathed with a variety of sacred substances such as milk, honey, curd, ghee, coconut water, and rose water. Each of these items has its symbolic significance:

    • Milk symbolises purity.

    • Honey represents sweetness and compassion.

    • Curd signifies nourishment.

    • Ghee embodies strength and clarity.

    • Coconut water symbolises fertility and growth.

    • Rose water is a symbol of love and beauty.

    Step 4: Chanting Sacred Mantras

    Priests and devotees chant mantras, with the Om Namah Shivaya mantra being particularly prominent. This powerful mantra is believed to invoke blessings from Lord Shiva and radiate positive energy.

    Step 5: Offering Prayers and Rituals

    A common offering during Arudra Darshan is the Bilva leaf, which holds great importance in Hindu rituals. Devotees also present fruits, sweets, and incense sticks as prayers for peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

    Step 6: Reciting Shiva Stotras

    Devotees recite sacred texts such as the Shiva Tandava Stotra, Shiva Sahasranama, and other Shiva hymns to honour Lord Nataraja. These hymns describe his cosmic dance and the universe’s creation and dissolution. The recitations are considered acts of reverence and meditation.

    Step 7: Observing the Fast

    Many devotees choose to observe a full-day fast as part of their offering. The fast is typically broken at sunset with sattvic food, symbolising discipline, self-control, and respect toward the divine.

    Arudra Darshan is deeply intertwined with several mythological stories that highlight Lord Shiva’s cosmic dance. One of the most celebrated legends tells the story of Lord Shiva performing the Ananda Tandava at the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. In this legend, Lord Shiva reveals his cosmic form and performs the dance to show the gods, including Vishnu and Brahma, the rhythms of creation and dissolution. His dance signifies the ceaseless cycle of life and death, creation and destruction, that governs the universe.

    Another story revolves around Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s consort, who asked him to reveal his cosmic dance. On the day of Arudra Darshan, Lord Shiva granted her wish, showcasing his divine dance. This tale emphasises devotion, surrender to the divine, and the blessings that come with true faith and humility.

    Arudra Darshan is a powerful and spiritually enriching festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering devotees an opportunity to connect with the divine energies of the universe. The rituals, prayers, and legends associated with this day serve as reminders of the cosmic balance that governs life and the universe. It is a time for devotees to reflect on their spiritual journey, seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, and honour the eternal rhythm of creation, preservation, and destruction that he embodies through his Nataraja form.

    (Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 12, 2025 04:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Steve Jobs’ Widow Laurene Powell To Observe Kalpavas, Will Stay in Prayagraj For 2 Weeks

    Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Steve Jobs’ Widow Laurene Powell To Observe Kalpavas, Will Stay in Prayagraj For 2 Weeks

    Prayagraj, January 9: Laurene Powell Jobs, philanthropist and widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is set to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, beginning January 13, 2025. Her attendance at this iconic Hindu gathering highlights the event’s universal and spiritual significance. Powell Jobs will engage in Kalpvas, an ancient Hindu tradition promoting spiritual discipline and self-purification.

    Kalpvas, rooted in scriptures like the Mahabharata, involves a month-long commitment to austerity, starting on Paush Purnima and ending on Maghi Purnima. Participants, known as Kalpvasis, forgo modern comforts to live in temporary shelters near the Sangam—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. They perform daily rituals, including holy dips, attend spiritual discourses, and practice meditation to achieve inner growth and purification. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 Start and End Dates in Prayagraj: What Are the Six Shahi Snan Dates? Know Important Mahakumbh Mela Bathing and Spiritual Rituals To Mark the Grand Festival in Uttar Pradesh.

    According to The Times of India, Powell Jobs will stay at the camp of Swami Kailashananda, Mahamandaleshwar of the Niranjani Akhara, and participate in rituals, including taking a sacred dip at the Sangam. Her stay will continue until January 29, during which she will immerse herself in the event’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: Adani Group Collaborates With ISKCON, To Offer ‘Mahaprasad Seva’ to Devotees at Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj.

    Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh Mela draws millions of devotees and seekers worldwide. Powell Jobs’ presence underscores the event’s global resonance and cultural appeal. Her participation adds a contemporary dimension to the timeless tradition, symbolising unity and the enduring relevance of spiritual practices in today’s interconnected world.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 09, 2025 11:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • When Is Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025? Know Vrat Date, Parana Time, Ekadashi Tithi, Puja Vidhi and Significance To Observe the Holy Fast Dedicated to Lord Vishnu

    When Is Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025? Know Vrat Date, Parana Time, Ekadashi Tithi, Puja Vidhi and Significance To Observe the Holy Fast Dedicated to Lord Vishnu

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi is an auspicious Hindu occasion dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. The day is celebrated with great devotion, especially by Vaishnavas, who consider Vaikuntha Ekadashi as a special Ekadashi. Vaikuntha Ekadashi coincides with Mokshada Ekadashi or Putrada Ekadashi. It is observed on the 11th lunar day of the waxing lunar fortnight of the solar month of Dhanu. Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 falls on Friday, January 10. On January 11, the Parana Time will be from 07:14 AM to 08:21 AM. January 2025 Holidays and Festivals Calendar: Check Dates of Important Events in the First Month of the Year. 

    The Dwadashi End Moment on Parana Day will be at 08:21 AM. The Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 12:22 AM on January 9 and end at 10:19 AM on January 10. In this article, let’s know more about Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat 2025 date, shubh muhurat, puja rituals and the significance of the auspicious day. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 Date

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025 falls on Friday, January 10.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi 2025, Parana Time and Tithi

    • The Dwadashi End Moment on Parana Day will be at 08:21 am.

    • On January 11, the Parana Time will be from 07:14 am to 08:21 am.

    • The Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 12:22 am on January 9, 2025 and end at 10:19 am on January 10, 2025.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi Puja Vidhi and Rituals

    • Vaikuntha Ekadashi fasting is an important aspect where devotees of Lord Vishnu wake up early in the morning, take a bath and wear clean clothes.

    • People fast the whole day and keep vigil and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Special prayers are offered to the Lord. Devotees also engage in Japa and Dhyan, i.e. meditation.

    • On ‘Dashami’, the previous day of the observance, devotees who take up Vaikuntha Ekadashi fasting are to take only lunch.

    • On Ekadashi day, devotees have to maintain a complete fast and engage in prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu. On this day, devotees keep vigil the whole night and visit the temple of Vishnu, mostly in the wee hours of the morning.

    • Devotees break the fast at the Parana time and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for a prosperous and happy life.

    • In Vishnu temples, Vaikuntha Ekadashi is part and parcel of Dhanurmasam (Margaḻi) vratam and its puja.

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi Significance

    Vaikuntha Ekadashi holds great significance for Hindus, especially the devotees of Lord Vishnu. The Vishnu Purana states that fasting on Vaikuntha Ekadashi is equivalent to fasting on the remaining 23 Ekadashis of the Hindu calendar year. However, according to Vaishnava tradition, fasting is mandatory on all Ekadashis of both Shukla paksha and Krishna paksha and is considered sacred as Ekadashis are dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Vaikuntha Ekadashi is also known as Mukkoti Ekadashi. It is believed that Vaikuntha Dwaram or the gate of Lord’s inner sanctum is opened on this day and devotees who observe fast on Vaikuntha Ekadashi attain salvation by going to Heaven.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 09, 2025 12:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).