Utthana Ekadashi

The glories of Utthana Ekadashi are described in the Skanda Purana through a conversation between Lord Krishna and Maharaja Yudhishthira.

Once, Maharaja Yudhishthira asked Lord Krishna to explain the significance of the Ekadashi that occurs during the bright fortnight of Kartika. Lord Krishna replied that this Ekadashi is known as Utthana Ekadashi, the day on which Lord Vishnu awakens from His transcendental rest in the Kshira Sagara (Ocean of Milk). Lord Krishna explained that during the four sacred months of Chaturmasya, Lord Vishnu enters Yoga Nidra for the welfare of the universe. During this period, devotees increase their spiritual practices, observe austerities, and dedicate themselves more deeply to devotional service.

When Utthana Ekadashi arrives, the Lord awakens, and all auspicious activities once again flourish throughout the world. The demigods, sages, and devotees rejoice, offering prayers and worship to Lord Vishnu with great devotion. The scriptures explain that observing Utthana Ekadashi pleases Lord Hari immensely. Those who fast, worship the Lord, chant His holy names, and engage in devotional service on this day receive extraordinary spiritual merit. Their sins are destroyed, their devotion increases, and they advance toward the eternal service of the Supreme Lord.

This sacred day is also associated with Tulasi Vivah, the divine ceremonial marriage of Srimati Tulasi Devi and Lord Vishnu. The celebration symbolizes the union of pure devotion with the Supreme Personality of Godhead and marks the beginning of the traditional season of auspicious ceremonies.

Thus, Utthana Ekadashi became renowned as the Ekadashi of spiritual awakening, renewal, and the special mercy of Lord Vishnu.