Varuthini Ekadashi
Varuthini Ekadashi falls on Chaitra Vad 11. Observing a full fast on this day brings happiness in this life and the next. This vratt destroys all sins and elevates the devotee on the path toward ultimate liberation.
Great kings such as Mandhata and Dhundhumar attained salvation in Swarg by observing this sacred Ekadashi. Even Mahadev Bhagwan, who was once cursed after cutting Brahmaji’s fifth head, was freed from that sin due to the powerful observance of Varuthini Ekadashi.
The scriptures say that performing continuous penance for one thousand years grants the same fruits as observing this one Ekadashi with full devotion.
Kanyadaan—the act of giving one’s daughter in marriage—is considered the highest form of charity. But the merit of observing Varuthini Ekadashi equals the fruit of performing a hundred kanyadaans.
The day before Varuthini Ekadashi, devotees should eat only once. On Ekadashi itself, one must observe a complete fast and engage in devotion, remembering and singing the divine glory of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan throughout the day and night.