Guruvayur Ekadashi: Spiritual Fasting & Rituals

Guruvayur Ekadashi Vrat is a highly revered fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, especially observed at the famous Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple in Kerala. This sacred day holds deep spiritual significance and is celebrated with unique rituals and traditions that attract thousands of devotees every year.​

Significance of Guruvayur Ekadashi Vrat

Guruvayur Ekadashi, also known as Vrishchika Ekadashi, falls in the Shukla Paksha of the Malayalam month Vrishchikam. It is believed that Lord Krishna imparted the essence of Ekadashi fasting to Arjuna, emphasizing its power to cleanse sins and bring devotees closer to divine grace. The day is also associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu defeating the demon Murdanav with the help of the Ekadashi damsel, who emerged from the eleven indriyas (organs) of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe the fast to control their senses and seek spiritual upliftment.​

Date and Timings for 2025

Guruvayur Ekadashi Vrat in 2025 will be observed on Monday, December 1st. The Ekadashi Tithi begins at 21:30 on November 30th and ends at 19:00 on December 1st. The fast is typically broken on Dwadashi (the next day) after performing prayers and rituals.​

Rituals and Observances

• Fasting: Devotees observe a day-long fast, abstaining from grains, rice, and salt. Some may undertake a complete nirjala vrat (without water).​

• Temple Visit: Visiting the Guruvayur Temple is considered highly auspicious. Special pujas, offerings, and the ceremonial procession of Lord Guruvayurappan (Ezhunnallippu) are conducted.​

• Ekadasi Vilakku: One of the most enchanting rituals is the lighting of lamps (Ekadasi Vilakku), which begins almost a month before the main Ekadashi day. Devotees contribute oil and ghee for the lamps, symbolizing their offerings to Lord Krishna.​

• Chanting and Bhajans: Devotees chant sacred mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” and recite passages from the Bhagavad Gita or Srimad Bhagavad Purana for spiritual reflection.​

• Tribute to Guruvayur Kesavan: A special tribute is paid to Guruvayur Kesavan, the legendary temple elephant, with a wreath placed at his statue and elephants paying obeisance.​

• Parana (Breaking the Fast): The fast is broken on Dwadashi after taking a bath, offering prayers, and consuming prasadam, often with tulsi leaves and flowers.​

Spiritual and Cultural Impact

Guruvayur Ekadashi Vrat is not only a religious observance but also a cultural event that brings together devotees from all walks of life. The temple premises are filled with devotional chants, the fragrance of flowers, and the vibrant energy of countless devotees. The rituals, especially the elephant procession and the lighting of lamps, create an atmosphere of intense devotion and spiritual warmth.