Vijaya Ekadashi is considered extremely auspicious and sacred in Hinduism. It falls on the Ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Phalguna. This year, Vijaya Ekadashi will be observed on February 24, 2025 (Monday). It is believed to destroy all sins and pave the way for success and victory in life.
Significance of Vijaya Ekadashi
The importance of Vijaya Ekadashi is mentioned in the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana. It is believed that observing this fast frees a person from all types of sins and leads to success in life. This vrat (fast) not only brings material happiness and prosperity but also grants liberation (moksha).
The significance of this fast dates back to the era of the Ramayana. When Lord Rama wanted to cross the ocean to reach Lanka and build a bridge (Ram Setu), he followed the advice of Sage Vashishta and observed the Vijaya Ekadashi fast. As a result of this fast, he was able to defeat Ravana successfully. This is why it is called Vijaya Ekadashi, as it bestows victory and success.
Worship Rituals of Vijaya Ekadashi
To observe the Vijaya Ekadashi fast, devotees should follow these rituals with devotion and discipline:
1. Morning Bath and Sankalp
- Wake up early before sunrise and take a holy bath.
- Meditate on Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi while taking the vow for the fast.
- Wear clean clothes and maintain purity throughout the day.
2. Worship of Lord Vishnu
- Install an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu in the home temple.
- Offer sacred water, flowers, rice grains (Akshat), incense, and a lamp (Diya).
- Specially offer Tulsi leaves and yellow flowers to Lord Vishnu.
- Perform an abhishek (holy bath) of Lord Vishnu with Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and Ganga water).
- Recite Vishnu Sahasranama, Bhagavad Gita verses, and the Vijaya Ekadashi vrat katha (story).
3. Bhajan-Kirtan and Night Vigil (Jagran)
- Chant Lord Vishnu’s name throughout the day.
- Performing bhajan-kirtan (devotional songs) and staying awake all night brings immense merit.
- Chant the mantra: “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” for divine blessings.
4. Charity and Good Deeds
- Donate food, clothes, and money to Brahmins, the poor, and the needy.
- Offering grains, fruits, and donations is considered highly auspicious.
- Serving cows (Gau Seva) on this day brings divine blessings.
Fasting and Breaking the Fast
- On the Dwadashi (twelfth) day, wake up early, take a bath, and worship Lord Vishnu.
- Donate food, clothes, and money to the needy.
- Break the fast with Satvik (pure vegetarian) food after offering it to Lord Vishnu.
Benefits of Observing Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat
Observing the Vijaya Ekadashi fast provides several spiritual and material benefits, such as:
- Success and Victory – This vrat helps individuals achieve success in all aspects of life.
- Destruction of Sins – It cleanses one’s past sins and purifies the soul.
- Liberation (Moksha) – Observing this fast leads to salvation and a place in Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s abode).
- Freedom from Enemies – It helps in overcoming obstacles and defeating enemies.
- Peace and Prosperity – Brings happiness, prosperity, and harmony to the home.
Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat Katha
According to Hindu scriptures, when Lord Rama was preparing to attack Lanka, he faced many obstacles in crossing the ocean. He approached Sage Vashishta for guidance.
Sage Vashishta advised him to observe the Vijaya Ekadashi fast and assured that it would remove all difficulties. Lord Rama, along with Lakshmana, Hanuman, and the Vanara (monkey) army, observed this fast with complete devotion.
As a result of this powerful vrat, the ocean god (Samudra Dev) provided a clear path, making the construction of the Ram Setu possible. Eventually, Lord Rama achieved victory over Ravana. This is why this Ekadashi is known as Vijaya (meaning “victory”).
Beliefs Associated with Vijaya Ekadashi
- A person who observes this fast with full devotion never faces obstacles in life.
- Worshiping Lord Vishnu on this day eliminates all past sins.
- Anyone who observes this vrat with sincerity achieves success in life.
- Before any battle or important endeavor, observing Vijaya Ekadashi fast guarantees victory.
Vijaya Ekadashi in 2025 falls on February 24, and observing this fast brings immense spiritual and material benefits. Worshiping Lord Vishnu and following the fasting rituals on this day leads to freedom from sins, victory in life, and ultimately, salvation (Moksha).
If you are facing challenges in life or want success in an important endeavor, observing the Vijaya Ekadashi fast will be highly beneficial. On this sacred occasion, worship Lord Vishnu with faith and devotion, and seek his divine blessings for peace, prosperity, and success in life.
