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Vaikuntha: Meaning
वैकुंठVaikuntha is the eternal abode of Vishnu and Lakshmi, a realm of light beyond the material universe. The Rigveda calls it Vishnu's highest step, and the Bhagavata Purana describes its gatekeepers Jaya and Vijaya, whose curse sets the stage for several avatars. Its gate is said to open on Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
What does it symbolise?
Tradition holds
For Vaishnavas, reaching Vaikuntha is moksha itself: eternal life in the presence of the Lord, in loving service. The name is often explained as the place without kuntha, without hindrance or limitation.
The opening of the Vaikuntha Dvara on Vaikuntha Ekadashi turns this idea into an act that any devotee can take part in: walking through the temple's northern door as a sign of passing into the divine presence.
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