Kartiki Ekadashi, also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi or Dev Uthani Ekadashi, marks one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar.
It signifies the awakening of Lord Vishnu after four months of divine rest during Chaturmas.
The day also marks the beginning of the auspicious season (shubh karya kaal) – weddings, engagements, and Tulsi Vivah rituals start from this day.
For devotees in Maharashtra and Nashik, Kartiki Ekadashi holds deep cultural and spiritual importance, especially in temples dedicated to Shri Vishnu and Vithoba.
Kartiki Ekadashi 2025 Date and Time
There is some confusion this year (2025) about the exact date, but according to most panchangs and temples including Pandharpur, the fast and puja should be observed on Sunday, 2 November 2025.
Kartiki Ekadashi 2025 details:
- Ekadashi Tithi begins – 1 November 2025 at 9:11 AM
- Ekadashi Tithi ends – 2 November 2025 at 7:31 AM
- Fasting Day (Bhāgavata tradition) – Sunday, 2 November 2025
- Parana (fast-breaking) – Monday, 3 November 2025 morning after 7:31 AM
This distinction arises because the tithi spans two days. As per the Bhagavata rule (followed by most devotees and temples), the day on which sunrise occurs in Ekadashi tithi is considered the day of fasting – hence 2 November 2025.
Smarta vs Bhagavata – Why Two Dates?
- Smarta Ekadashi considers the calendar day on which the Ekadashi tithi begins, even if after sunrise.
- Bhagavata Ekadashi follows the day where the sunrise itself falls under the Ekadashi tithi.
In 2025, since sunrise on 2 November falls within the Ekadashi tithi, most people will observe the fast on 2 November 2025.
Pandharpur Vithoba temple and major Vishnu temples also follow the Bhagavata tradition.
Also read – Tapovan in Nashik: Ancient forest related to the Ramayana under threat of destruction
Dev Shayani Ekadashi – When Lord Vishnu Enters Divine Sleep
Dev Shayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi, marks the day when Lord Vishnu enters his divine rest or Yoga Nidra in the Ksheersagar (Ocean of Milk).
This occurs on the bright Ekadashi of the Ashadha month – usually in June or July – symbolizing the start of the Chaturmas period (four holy months) when major religious functions are paused.
In a deeper sense, this “cosmic sleep” of Lord Vishnu is a reflection of Nature itself slowing down. The rainy season arrives with its heavy downpours, clouded skies, and damp stillness.
The sun remains hidden; growth in the natural world pauses. It is as if the divine energy that sustains the universe enters a meditative slumber, giving creation time to rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for renewal.
The moisture and dormancy of the rainy season thus mirrors Vishnu’s yogic rest – a sacred rhythm where both Prakriti (nature) and Purusha (life energy) lie in repose.
When Vishnu awakens on Kartiki Ekadashi (Dev Utthani), the world reawakens with him – bright, renewed, and ready for auspicious beginnings.
Kartiki Ekadashi Puja Vidhi (Rituals and Procedure)
The Kartiki Ekadashi vrat is observed with devotion, purity, and fasting. Here’s how devotees can perform the rituals at home or temple:
Preparation on Dashami (1 November 2025)
- Avoid consuming grains, onion, garlic, and non-veg food from Dashami evening.
- Clean the house and temple area; prepare tulsi and diya materials.
- Sleep on the floor or on a simple mat as a mark of austerity.
Puja and Vrat on Ekadashi (2 November 2025)
Wake up before sunrise and take a holy bath (if possible at Brahma Muhurta).
Wear yellow attire – considered auspicious for Kartiki Ekadashi as it represents the light of knowledge and devotion and is dear to Lord Vishnu.
Decorate the altar with tulsi leaves, divas (small clay lamps), yellow flowers, and idols or images of Mata Lakshmi and Bhagwan Vishnu .
Offer sandalwood paste, flowers, fruits, sweets, sugarcane juice and panchamrut.
Light a diva or clay lamp filled with ghee, place dhoop or incense, and pray to Lord Vishnu with full devotion and humility
Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Chalisa, Ekadashi Vrat Katha or devotees may simply chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya and Om Vishnave Namah mantra.
In Maharashtra, devotees also observe night vigil (jagran) singing bhajans and abhangas dedicated to Vithoba-Rukmini.
End the puja by performing aarti and humbly apologising to Bhagwan Shri Vishnu with the prayer –
“O Lord Vishnu, please forgive me if any mistake was committed by me while performing this puja.”
Parana on Dwadashi (3 November 2025)
Maintain the fast through the day, worship again in the evening, and light a ghee diya at the entrance of your home as a symbol of divine light and protection.
- Parana (breaking of fast) should be done after sunrise and after the Dwadashi tithi begins.
- Offer food first to Brahmins or poor devotees before eating.
- Donation of clothes, food, or sesame (til) is considered highly meritorious.
Mantras and Prayers for Kartiki Ekadashi
Chanting Vishnu mantras throughout the day purifies the mind and soul. Recommended mantras include:
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
“Om Vishnave Namah”
“Om Narayanaya Namah”
Devotees in Maharashtra also recite abhangas of Sant Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, glorifying Lord Vithoba.
Auspicious Colour and Attire for 2025
- Auspicious Colour: Yellow (Pitambar)
- Symbolism: Represents light, faith, and prosperity – associated with Vishnu.
- Devotees decorate tulsi mandaps and diyas with yellow flowers and turmeric powder designs (rangolis).
Wearing yellow clothes on Kartiki Ekadashi is believed to attract divine blessings and spiritual peace.
Tulsi Vivah and Start of Shubh Karya Kaal 🌿
Kartiki Ekadashi also marks the end of Chaturmas – a four-month period when major religious ceremonies are paused.
From this day onwards, weddings, engagements, housewarmings, and other auspicious functions restart.
Tulsi Vivah 2025 will be observed between 2 November and 5 November, symbolizing the divine union of Tulsi (Vrinda Devi) and Lord Vishnu.
Kartiki Ekadashi Celebrations in Maharashtra 🚩
In Maharashtra, especially in rural areas and cities like Pandharpur, Nashik, and Kolhapur, Kartiki Ekadashi holds special significance.
Pandharpur: Lakhs of Warkaris gather at the Vithoba temple to offer prayers, perform kirtans, and take darshan.
Nashik: Vishnu temples and Tulsi mandaps are beautifully decorated. Devotees perform aarti, distribute prasad, and light hundreds of diyas near tulsi vrindavans.
Villages and homes: Many families observe fast and perform group bhajans, creating an atmosphere of devotion and joy.
Do’s and Don’ts for Kartiki Ekadashi Vrat
Do’s:
- Observe fast or consume light fruits and milk.
- Chant Vishnu mantras, read Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Sahasranama.
- Perform charity or donation.
- Light ghee lamps in the evening.
Don’ts:
- Avoid grains, rice, pulses, onion, garlic, and non-veg food.
- Avoid anger, false speech, or gossip.
- Avoid sleeping during the day or watching television excessively.
Kartiki Ekadashi: A Sacred Tradition of Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Kartiki Ekadashi is more than merely a fasting day – it is a sacred celebration of awakening and devotion.
From Pandharpur to Nashik, devotees rise before dawn, light lamps near their Tulsi Vrindavans, and sing abhangas in praise of Vithoba-Rukmini.
The fragrance of incense, the glow of diyas, and the chanting of “Vitthal Vitthal Jai Hari Vitthal” fills the air, symbolising the spiritual reawakening of both the Creator and His devotees.
As Vishnu awakens from his divine rest, life in every household and temple resumes its auspicious rhythm – marriages, pujas, and new beginnings start with joy and reverence.
Thus, Kartiki Ekadashi stands as a timeless link between cosmic order, seasonal change, and the Sanskriti (culture) of the Marathi people, reminding all that Aastha (devotion) and Dharma (righteousness) are the true lights that guide our path.
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Kartiki Ekadashi 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Kartiki Ekadashi and why is it celebrated?
Kartiki Ekadashi, also known as Dev Uthani Ekadashi or Prabodhini Ekadashi, marks the awakening of Bhagwan Vishnu from his four-month Yog Nidra that begins on Ashadhi Ekadashi. It signifies the end of Chaturmas and the start of auspicious events like Tulsi Vivah and marriages.
When is Kartiki Ekadashi 2025?
As per the Hindu Panchang, Kartiki Ekadashi 2025 will be observed on Sunday, November 2, 2025. The Ekadashi Tithi begins on November 1 at 09:11 AM and ends on November 2 at 7:31 AM.
Is Kartiki Ekadashi the same as Dev Uthani Ekadashi?
Yes. Kartiki Ekadashi, Dev Uthani Ekadashi, Prabodhini Ekadashi, and Dev Utthan Ekadashi all refer to the same auspicious day when Lord Vishnu awakens from Yog Nidra and restores divine order.
What are the rituals or Puja Vidhi for Kartiki Ekadashi?
On Kartiki Ekadashi, devotees wake up at Brahma Muhurta, bathe, wear yellow clothes, and worship Lord Vishnu with yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, sweets, and sugarcane juice. Lighting a ghee lamp and reciting Vishnu Chalisa or Ekadashi Katha is considered highly auspicious.
Can we eat fruits or milk during Kartiki Ekadashi fast?
Yes. Devotees observing Kartiki Ekadashi Vrat may consume fruits, milk, or water. Strict observers maintain a Nirjala fast (without water). The fast is broken the next morning (Dwadashi) after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu.
What is the spiritual significance of Dev Uthani Ekadashi?
Dev Uthani Ekadashi symbolizes the awakening of divine consciousness in the universe. It’s believed that all auspicious activities like marriage and Tulsi Vivah begin from this day onwards, marking a spiritual and seasonal renewal.
What is the connection between Tulsi Vivah and Kartiki Ekadashi?
Tulsi Vivah marks the divine marriage of Tulsi (Vrinda Devi) with Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram. The ceremony usually begins on Kartiki Ekadashi and continues till Kartik Purnima, making it a major event in Marathi households.
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