Gauna of Baba Vishwanath and Mata Gaura in Kashi, know why the story of Rangbhari Ekadashi on 27th February is special:

News India Live, Digital Desk: Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Phalgun month is called ‘Rangbhari Ekadashi’. This is the only Ekadashi in Hinduism which is related to Lord Vishnu as well as Devadhidev Mahadev. There is a wonderful festival on this day in Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is celebrated as ‘Gaune’ (coming from maternal home to in-laws house for the first time after marriage) of Mata Parvati.

Rangbhari Ekadashi 2026: Auspicious time and date

Ekadashi Tithi Start: From 27th February 2026, 12:33 AM midnight

Ekadashi date ends: By 27 February 2026, 10:32 PM

Fast according to rise date: 27 February 2026, Friday

Passage time: On 28th February from 06:59 AM to 09:20 AM

Story of ‘Gauna’ of Kashi Vishwanath and Mata Gaura

According to religious beliefs, the marriage of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati took place on the day of Mahashivratri. After marriage, Mother Parvati stayed at her father’s house (Himalaya).

In-laws arrival: On the day of Rangbhari Ekadashi, Lord Shiva, after performing ‘Gauna’ of Mother Parvati, brought her to his beloved city Kashi for the first time.

Welcome of Abir-Gulal: When Lord Shiva entered the borders of Kashi with his wife, his followers, devotees and people of Kashi welcomed him by blowing Abir-Gulal. The entire city was filled with colours, that is why it is called ‘Rangbhari’ Ekadashi.

Unique tradition of celebration in Kashi

The sight of this day in Varanasi is no less than a divine experience:

Palki Yatra: A movable statue of Baba Vishwanath and a beautiful palanquin of Mata Gaura are taken out. Devotees throw gulal in large quantities during this palanquin journey.

Turmeric Ceremony: Before Gauna, rituals of offering turmeric and oil to Goddess Parvati (Gaura) are performed, which is currently completed at the Mahant’s residence.

Beginning of Holi: In Kashi, the festival of Holi is considered to begin from Rangbhari Ekadashi. The next day, ‘Masane ki Holi’ is played at Manikarnika Ghat.

Importance of Amalaki Ekadashi (Amalaki Ekadashi)

There is also a special tradition of worshiping the Amla tree on this day. The scriptures say that the Amla tree originated from the mouth of Lord Vishnu and gods reside in every part of it. Offering and consuming Amla on this day brings health, happiness and prosperity.