Vaikunta Ekadasi

Vaikunta Ekadasi (literally - The Ekadasi of Vaikunta - The abode of Lord) falls on the 11th day of the Sukla Paksha (literally - waxing phase of moon) of the Dhanur (or Marghazhi in Tamil) month - 9 month of the Hindu Lunar Calendar. It is regarded to be a very auspicious day by the Hindus.

The great churning of the Divine Ocean, for Amrita, by Gods and Demons is considered to done on this day. Shiva has consumed the poison on the same day. Hence Shaivates consider this Ekadasi as the Nanjunda Ekadasi.

Hindus observe this day as day of prayer and fasting.

According to legend, whoever dies on this day goes directly to heaven without passing through the cycle of reincarnation.