Varuthini Ekadashi

Once, Maharaja Yudhishthira humbly asked Lord Krishna about the Ekadashi that falls during the dark fortnight of Vaisakha and the benefits of observing it.

In response, Lord Krishna explained that this sacred day is known as Varuthini Ekadashi and narrated the history of the great King Mandhata, whose life was transformed by observing this vrata. King Mandhata was a righteous and saintly ruler who eventually renounced royal comforts and retired to the forest to perform austerities and meditate upon Lord Vishnu. Absorbed in deep meditation, he spent his days remembering the Supreme Lord and engaging in spiritual practices.

One day, while the king sat peacefully in meditation, a huge wild bear suddenly emerged from the forest and attacked him. The fierce animal seized his leg and began violently mauling it. Although suffering intense pain, King Mandhata did not retaliate. Remaining steady in his devotion, he tolerated the attack and sincerely prayed to Lord Vishnu for protection.
“O Lord of the universe, I am completely helpless. Kindly protect Your surrendered servant.”

Hearing the heartfelt prayers of His devotee, Lord Vishnu immediately appeared riding upon Garuda. The Lord drove away the bear and rescued King Mandhata from danger. However, the king’s leg had been severely damaged during the attack. Seeing his condition, Lord Vishnu compassionately explained that the suffering was the result of reactions from an offense committed in a previous life.

The Lord then instructed him:
“Do not lament. Return to your kingdom and faithfully observe Varuthini Ekadashi. By worshipping Me and properly observing this sacred fast, your leg will be restored, and the reactions of your past karma will be destroyed.”

Following the Lord’s instructions, King Mandhata observed Varuthini Ekadashi with full faith, devotion, and sincerity. By the power of this sacred vrata and the mercy of Lord Vishnu, his leg was completely healed, and he became free from the burden of past sinful reactions. Thus, Varuthini Ekadashi became renowned as a powerful spiritual shield that protects devotees from suffering and helps them advance toward liberation.