On February 24, 2025, Hindus around the world will celebrate Vijaya Ekadashi, marking it as a day of significant religious observance. This auspicious day falls on the Krishna Paksha of the month of Falguni and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe performing rituals on this day can bring prosperity and success, echoing the tale of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana, who observed this fast.
The day begins with pious offerings to Lord Vishnu, with special rituals taking place from early morning. This year's Siddhi Yoga, which is favorable for such worship, will last until 10:05 AM. Devotees are encouraged to offer yellow flowers, black sesame seeds, fruits, and Tulsi leaves to the deity, enhancing the day’s significance. The Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat Katha, or story, which narrates the importance of this fast, should be recited, followed by night-long vigils and dawn rituals including sacred bathing and donating to the needy.
According to the Panchang, the date of Vijaya Ekadashi this year is significant, with specific auspicious periods outlined. The day begins with Brahma Muhurat from 5:11 AM to 6:01 AM, considered the best time for prayer. The important Vijay Muhurat, which can be particularly beneficial for beginning new ventures, will occur from 2:30 PM to 3:15 PM. It’s also noted for its exclusion of significant unfavorable periods, with Rahu Kaal from 8:18 AM to 9:44 AM being the only warning against commencing new tasks.
For worshippers, additional auspicious timings to keep in mind include Amrit Kaal from 6:50 AM to 8:16 AM, which also provides opportunities for overcoming obstacles and seeking divine blessings. These timings underlie the rich Hindu belief system centered around auspicious periods and their effect on daily life.
Vijaya Ekadashi is not just about fasting and worship; it’s also about sharing joy and blessings among family. It is customary for families to prepare special dishes, including halwa and bananas, as offerings to mark the occasion. This act fosters unity and reinforces family bonds, tying cultural significance to religious observance.
For those observing the fast, prayers to Lord Shiva alongside Lord Vishnu are recommended. This dual worship is believed to augment the day’s positive effects. Offering Bilva leaves, water, fruits, and chanting Shiva Chalisa can lead to the removal of planetary maleficities, showering blessings of peace and prosperity. Adjusting these practices can lead to auspicious outcomes, as indicated by the Panchang.
The day’s Panchang also notes the moon will transition from Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makara) the following day, which adds another layer of significance to the rituals performed on Vijaya Ekadashi, linking them with lunar cycles and astrological beliefs.
Looking at the complete Panchang for February 24, 2025, we see the solar and lunar timings clearly laid out. The moonrise occurs at 6:52 AM and sunset at 6:17 PM. It is imperative for practitioners to align their activities with the celestial mechanics set forth by the Panchang to maximize the benefits gained from the day.
With such auspicious potential, Vijaya Ekadashi on February 24 promises to be especially powerful for all participating devotees. With this knowledge, families can come together to celebrate their faith and hope for joy and success.
To conclude, the Vijaya Ekadashi celebration integrates ancient rituals with modern observance, balancing tradition with community values. The details gleaned from the Panchang serve not only to guide participants through the day but also deepen their connection with their heritage.