Vijaya Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) Ekadashi of the month of Phalguna (also reckoned as Magha Krishna Paksha in some calendars, February-March). Vijaya means victory, and this Ekadashi is uniquely distinguished in the Puranic literature because it was observed by none other than Lord Rama Himself — Sriman Narayana incarnate — before He embarked on the construction of the bridge to Lanka.
If even the Supreme Lord chose to observe this Ekadashi before undertaking the most consequential military campaign in the Ramayana, its power to grant success in righteous endeavors is beyond question. The Vedic tradition holds Vijaya Ekadashi as especially auspicious for those facing great challenges, difficult undertakings, or pivotal moments in life.
The Story
The Padma Purana narrates this story through a conversation between Lord Krishna and King Yudhishthira. When Lord Ramaarrived at the southern shore of the ocean with His army of Vanaras, the immense challenge of crossing the sea to reach Lanka and rescue Sita Devi weighed upon all. The ocean was vast, Ravana's forces were formidable, and the task seemed almost impossible even for an army led by Hanuman, Sugriva, and the great Vanara warriors.
At that critical juncture, the sage Bakadalbhya appeared before Lord Rama. Though the sage knew well that Rama was Sriman Narayana Himself, the Lila (divine play) of the incarnation required that the Lord act within the framework of dharma as a human king. Bakadalbhya counseled Rama to observe Vijaya Ekadashi before commencing the bridge-building — for the merit of this Ekadashi would ensure absolute victory over every obstacle.
Rama's Observance
Lord Rama, exemplifying perfect adherence to dharma, observed Vijaya Ekadashi with full devotion — fasting through the day, worshipping Lord Vishnu (worshipping His own supreme form, for such is the mystery of avatara), and keeping vigil through the night. His entire army of Vanaras joined Him in the observance. On the morning of Dvadashi, the fast was broken and the construction of the Setu — the great bridge to Lanka — commenced. The merit of Vijaya Ekadashi ensured that every stone floated on the water, the bridge was completed, and Lord Rama marched triumphantly to Lanka, defeated Ravana, and rescued Sita Devi.
Padma Purana on Vijaya Ekadashi
“He who observes Vijaya Ekadashi with faith shall conquer every adversity, even as Sri Rama conquered the ocean itself. No obstacle can stand before the devotee who fasts on this day with his heart surrendered to Narayana.”
Sri Vaishnava Significance
For Sri Vaishnavas, Vijaya Ekadashi carries a dual teaching. First, it demonstrates the Lord's own Vrata Nishtha — His commitment to dharmic observance even when He is the very source of all dharma. Lord Rama, though omnipotent, chose to fast and pray, showing that devotional discipline is not beneath anyone but is the proper conduct of the highest souls.
Second, this Ekadashi teaches that victory in righteous endeavors comes through surrender to Narayana, not through force alone. The bridge to Lanka was not built by engineering prowess — it was built by the combined merit of devotion, the blessings of Vijaya Ekadashi, and the divine will operating through faithful servants. This is the quintessence of Prapatti: undertake your duty with full effort, but place the outcome entirely in the hands of the Lord.
How We Observe at JETNJ
Upavasa
A complete fast from sunrise on Ekadashi through sunrise on Dvadashi, especially recommended for those facing significant challenges or new ventures.
Rama Puja
Special worship of Lord Rama alongside the standard Vishnu puja, with recitation of the Rama Ashtottara and passages from the Sundara Kanda of the Ramayana.
Night Vigil
Devotees remain awake through the night, chanting the Divya Prabandham and meditating on Lord Rama's example of dharmic perseverance.
Dvadashi Paranam
The fast is broken on Dvadashi morning with tulasi water and prasadam, completing the vrata with gratitude and renewed resolve.
Vijayostu — May victory be yours, as it was for Rama on the shores of the southern sea.
— Traditional blessing on Vijaya Ekadashi
Based on the Padma Purana, the Valmiki Ramayana, and the teachings of the Sri Vaishnava Acharyas. Published for educational and devotional purposes by JETNJ — Sanjeevani Jeeyar Asramam.
