Tirumala Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple place has a plethora of history and mythological stories connected to Sri Maha Vishnu who incarnated himself as Srinivasa, and the Temple is all gearing up for the sacred Uttara Dwara Darshan innermost sanctum opened only once in a year on Vaikunta Ekadasi.
Vaikunta Ekadasi history revolves around the story where Lord Vishnu opened the gates for those Asuras who were against him. They were two in number and they had revolted against the various policies of the Gods. Lord Vishnu heard their prayers and decided to increase their freedom and their efficiency. He rewarded both the Asuras by welcoming them to his own abode.
These stories elucidate the meaning of Vaikunta Ekadashi.
Another story about Vaikunta Ekadashi that is prevalent from the Padma Purana states the tale of a female energy. She slayed down Muran, the demon and protected the Devas. The Gods were unable to tolerate the tyrannical Muran and thus approached Shiva who transferred them to Vishnu. Vishnu ensured a terrible battle with Muran but was unable to defeat the clan of Muran. He realized thus, that a weapon far greater than the ones he was using would be required. He thus retired to Badarikashrama, a cave that was primarily for Haimavati’s (Parvati’s image) cave.
Vishnu burned Muran with the female energy that rose from Vishnu while he was sleeping. On the eleventh day of the Margashirsha month, the female energy slayed the demon Muran. So, Vishnu named this female energy as Ekadashi and blessed her, saying that those who would worship Ekadashi would reach Vaikunta. Vaikunta Ekadashi is celebrated keeping in mind both these stories.
It is one of the most auspicious days for the Hindus, and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. When observed rightfully, it can liberate one from the cycle of birth and death. The rice is prohibited on Ekadashi, since it makes one heavy and thus disturbs the vigilant nature of the individual.
Muran dwells in rice is what is believed. Muran denotes the rajasic and tamasic attributes of every human being. Muran denotes lust, passion, inertia and the arrogant nature of every individual. If you gain victory over them, you can gain Satva, purity of mind. This is the most important quality for Moksha. When you are vigilant at night, you become still. This stillness helps us to achieve freedom and peace above everything. Peace and freedom merges the mind with the body and is important for the process of liberation.