Apara Ekadashi is known for its potent ability to absolve sins and grant the devotee immense spiritual merit. The word “Apara” means limitless or boundless, symbolizing the infinite benefits one can receive by observing this Ekadashi with devotion and sincerity.

Significance of Apara Ekadashi

Apara Ekadashi is especially revered for its ability to wash away sins, particularly those committed out of ignorance. It is believed that by observing this Ekadashi, one can achieve freedom from the cycle of rebirth (samsar) and attain moksh (liberation). It is also thought to bring success in life, wealth, and reputation, making it a day of great importance for those seeking both material and spiritual benefits.

This Ekadashi is also seen as a time for repentance and spiritual reflection, where devotees can atone for their past mistakes and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for a prosperous and righteous life.

The Story Behind Apara Ekadashi

The significance of Apara Ekadashi is described in several Puranas, including the Brahma Vaivarta Puran, where a legend illustrates the immense spiritual power of this day.

The Legend of King Mahidhvaja and Apara Ekadashi

According to the legend, there was once a noble and just king named Mahidhvaja, who ruled his kingdom with righteousness and devotion to Lord Vishnu. However, the king’s younger brother, Vajradhvaja, was envious of his success and virtue. Blinded by jealousy, Vajradhvaja killed King Mahidhvaja and buried his body under a peepal tree in the forest.

Due to his untimely and unjust death, King Mahidhvaja’s spirit could not attain peace and became a restless ghost, haunting the forest where he was buried. Despite his virtuous life, his soul was trapped due to the violent circumstances of his death.

One day, a wise sage named Dattatreya passed through the forest and noticed the distressed spirit of King Mahidhvaja. With his spiritual insight, the sage understood the reason for the king’s unrest and decided to help him attain liberation. Sage Dattatreya performed the rituals of Apara Ekadashi for the king, offering prayers and fasting on his behalf.

Pleased with the sage’s devotion and the observance of Apara Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu granted King Mahidhvaja’s soul liberation from his ghostly form. The king’s spirit was freed from its earthly bonds, and he ascended to the heavenly realms, attaining moksha. The sage also received immense spiritual merit for his selfless act.

Moral and Spiritual Significance

The story of King Mahidhvaja highlights the importance of Apara Ekadashi in cleansing the soul of past sins and helping even those in dire spiritual conditions attain liberation. It teaches that sincere devotion, coupled with the observance of this sacred day, can bring peace and redemption, not only for oneself but also for others.

Rituals and Observance

• Fasting: On Apara Ekadashi, devotees observe a strict fast, refraining from consuming grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some may undertake a complete fast, consuming only water, while others may eat fruits, milk, and other permitted foods. The fast begins at sunrise on Ekadashi and concludes on Dwadashi (the 12th day) after performing Parana, which involves offering food to a Brahmin or deity before breaking the fast.
• Puja and Prayers: Devotees dedicate the day to worshiping Lord Vishnu, offering flowers, incense, and other offerings. Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama (a thousand names of Vishnu) and other hymns is common. Devotees also meditate on Lord Vishnu’s divine form and seek his blessings for forgiveness and spiritual growth.
• Charity: Acts of charity and helping those in need are highly encouraged on Apara Ekadashi. Donating food, clothes, or money to the poor is believed to enhance the spiritual benefits of the fast.
• Vigil: It is also recommended to stay awake through the night, engaging in devotional activities such as singing bhajans (devotional songs), reading scriptures, and meditating on Lord Vishnu.

Spiritual Benefits

Observing Apara Ekadashi is believed to:

• Wash away sins committed in this and past lives.
• Help achieve freedom from the cycle of birth and death (moksha).
• Grant prosperity, success, and a good reputation.
• Provide relief from the negative effects of bad karma.
• Bestow the blessings and protection of Lord Vishnu.

Apara Ekadashi is a day of profound spiritual significance, offering devotees an opportunity to cleanse their souls, seek forgiveness for their misdeeds, and attain the grace of Lord Vishnu. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal, where the limitless power of devotion and divine grace can lead to ultimate liberation.