Vaikunta Ekadasi is a highly significant religious festival celebrated in Vishnu (Perumal) temples across Tamil Nadu, especially during the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January). This festival holds deep spiritual importance for followers of Sri Vaishnavism and is considered the most auspicious Ekadashi of the year.
🌟 What Is Vaikunta Ekadasi?
Vaikunta Ekadasi is observed on the 11th day (Ekadasi) of the waxing moon in the Tamil month of Margazhi. It is believed to be the day when the gates of Vaikunta, Lord Vishnu’s celestial abode, open, allowing devotees to attain liberation (moksha). The festival commemorates the ascent of the Alvar saint Nammalvar to Vaikunta, symbolizing the soul’s return to the divine realm.
🏛️ Celebrations in Tamil Nadu
Vaikunta Ekadasi is celebrated with grandeur in several prominent Vishnu temples across Tamil Nadu:
- Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangam: The festival spans 20 days, divided into Pagal Pathu (10 days of daytime rituals) and Ra Pathu (10 nights of nocturnal worship). The highlight is the opening of the Paramapada Vasal (gateway to Vaikunta) on Vaikunta Ekadasi, through which devotees pass to attain spiritual merit.
- Thiruvaikunda Vinnagaram, Thirunangur: Known as the Vaikunta Nathan Perumal Temple, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams. The temple’s sanctum is believed to be equivalent to Vaikunta, offering devotees a glimpse of the divine abode on earth.
- Azhwar Thirunagari, Tirunelveli: The birthplace of Nammalvar, this temple hosts a grand celebration attracting thousands of devotees, with special rituals and processions.
- Nithyakalyana Perumal Temple, Thiruvidandai: Located in Chennai’s Chengalpattu district, this temple is part of the 108 Divya Desams. The festival is marked by special prayers and rituals, drawing devotees from various regions.
- Alagirinathar Temple, Salem: This ancient temple is renowned for its celebration of Vaikunta Ekadasi, featuring the opening of the Swarga Vasal (heavenly gate) once a year during the festival.
🙏 Rituals and Devotional Practices
On Vaikunta Ekadasi, devotees observe fasting, sing devotional hymns, and engage in night vigils. Visiting Vishnu temples is considered mandatory, and passing through the Vaikunta Dwaram (gateway) is believed to grant spiritual liberation. Temples are adorned with lights and flowers, and special prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu.
If you’re planning to experience Vaikunta Ekadasi in Tamil Nadu, visiting temples like Srirangam or Thiruvaikunda Vinnagaram offers a profound insight into this sacred tradition.