In Indian culture, Ekadashi holds profound spiritual significance. The 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases each month is dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu and observing a strict fast. Among these, the Ekadashi falling on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Margashirsha is especially sacred and known by two revered names: Mokshada Ekadashi and Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
This auspicious day is believed to grant spiritual purification, open the gates of Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s divine abode), and pave the way for ultimate liberation (moksha) when observed with devotion, fasting, and charity.
Mokshada Ekadashi, also revered as Vaikuntha Ekadashi, will be observed on Sunday, 1 December 2025.
Parana timings:
In Hindu tradition, the fasting and vrat are observed on the day when the Ekadashi tithi is prevalent at sunrise (Udaya Tithi). Since the tithi begins on 30 November but is fully present at sunrise on 1 December, the correct and widely accepted date for observing Mokshada Ekadashi / Vaikuntha Ekadashi vrat in 2025 is 1 December 2025. Devotees should break their fast (parana) on the morning of 2 December after the tithi ends.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Begins | November 30, 2025 |
| Ekadashi Ends | December 1, 2025 |
| Parana Time | December 1, 2025 06:57 AM to 09:03 AM |
Note: Parana is the ritual of ending the fast and should be observed during the specified period.
The glory of Vaikuntha Ekadashi is beautifully described in ancient scriptures like the Harivamsa Purana and Padma Purana.
According to the sacred texts, Lord Krishna himself says that anyone who sincerely fasts and worships Lord Vishnu on this special Ekadashi gets freed from all past sins and receives the blessing of moksha (liberation). It is believed that the gates of Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s heavenly abode) open on this day, and devoted observers are welcomed there after this life.
Ekodashi vratenaiva yatra yatra gato bhuvi.
Papam tasya vinashyanti Vishnuloke mahiyate॥
This means that by observing the Ekadashi fast, all sins are destroyed, and the person attains a place in Vishnu’s divine realm.
It is significant not only from a religious perspective but also as a symbol of inner purification and social responsibility. By fasting and performing acts of charity on this day, one purifies both mind and soul. It is said that the meritorious deeds done on this day yield manifold results. Observing the fast on Mokshada Ekadashi and giving donations to the needy and distressed frees the devotee from the cycle of birth and death, granting them ‘moksha’ and a place in Lord Vishnu’s divine abode, Vaikuntha.
Mokshada Ekadashi is also known as “Mauna Ekadashi” or “Maun Agiyaras,” where devotees observe a vow of silence (“maun”) throughout the day. It is believed that listening to the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita on this day grants one the same merit as performing an Ashwamedha Yajna (horse sacrifice ritual). According to the Vishnu Purana, the observance of Mokshada Ekadashi is considered as beneficial as observing the other twenty-three Ekadashi fasts.
Charity is described in our scriptures as a great virtuous act. It not only helps those in need but also opens the path to spiritual purification and liberation for the donor. As stated in the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita:
Dātavyamiti yaddānaṁ dīyate’nupakāriṇe.
Deśe kāle ca pātre ca taddānaṁ sāttvikaṁ smṛtam॥
This means that the charity given selflessly, at the right time, in the right place, and to the right recipient, is considered sattvic (pure) charity.
In the Vedas and Upanishads, charity is called the “pillar of dharma.” Especially the donation of food (annadan) and clothing (vastradan) is regarded as the highest.
Charity awakens feelings of compassion, kindness, and altruism within us. For the donor, this act not only brings joy in worldly life but also yields rewards in the afterlife.
On Mokshada Ekadashi, donating food is considered the highest form of charity. By giving donations and supporting the mission of feeding the poor and underprivileged through Narayan Seva Sansthan, you can become a part of this meritorious act.
Q. What is Mokshada Ekadashi?
A. Mokshada Ekadashi is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, observed for seeking liberation from sins and the cycle of rebirth.
Q. When is Vaikuntha Ekadashi in 2025?
A. Vaikuntha Ekadashi will be celebrated on December 1, 2025.
Q. What rituals are observed on Mokshada Ekadashi?
A. Rituals include fasting, prayers, chanting hymns, reading the Bhagavad Gita, and performing acts of charity.
Q. Why is donating to Mokshada Ekadashi significant?
A. Donations on this day are believed to bring spiritual merit, cleanse past sins, and create positive karma.
Q. How can I contribute meaningfully to Maun Ekadashi?
A. You can donate to trusted organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which supports life-changing initiatives for the needy.
Q. Are Mokshada Ekadashi and Vaikuntha Ekadashi the Same?
A. Yes, Mokshada Ekadashi and Vaikuntha Ekadashi are the same auspicious day.