The significance of the auspicious day of Ekadashi in Hinduism. Ekadashi refers to the eleventh day of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krushna Paksha) lunar phases in the Hindu calendar month. It occurs twice within a lunar month, typically 24 times a year.

The term Ekadashi means “the eleventh day.” Symbolically, it also represents the eleven senses (five sensory organs, five action organs, and the mind). Fasting and focusing on Lord Vishnu on this day are thought to help in controlling these senses, thus aiding in spiritual growth. According to the Hindu calendar, Ekadashi is the eleventh day of the two lunar cycles of the moon, after a new and full moon. On this auspicious day, the devotees of the Hindu god of preservation, Vishnu, go on a fast, offer prayers and chant mantras of praises. It is celebrated as a propitious day in Jainism too.

Ekadashi in Hinduism

Ekadashi is steeped in several mythological stories that highlight its importance in Hinduism. Here are some key stories associated with Ekadashi:

The Story of Ekadashi Devi and the Demon Mura:

Mythologically, Ekadashi was a goddess created by lord Vishnu. In one of the yugas or eras of life, a demon named Murdanav was causing havoc on Earth. The demon possessed unbelievable strength and was not easy to defeat. It was Ekadashi who finally killed Murdanav, restoring peace on the planet. She emerged from the ten senses or indriya and the mind of the body, taking up the name Ekadashi. As Vishnu was impressed by her, he bestowed her with a boon. She said that on the favourable day of Ekadashi, people should work upon governing their eleven senses by not consuming grain and cereals like white, rice etc. Which is why fasting on this day is also seen as a form of penance. By doing so, people can wash themselves off of their sins and eventually attain Moksh.

The Story of King Ambarish:

King Ambarish, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, observed Ekadashi Vrat (fast) with great devotion.  Once, during his fast, Sage Durvasa visited his palace. The king welcomed him and requested the sage to join him for a meal after he broke his fast. The sage agreed but went to the river for his rituals, which took longer than expected. As the auspicious time to break the fast approached, the king, on the advice of his priests, took a sip of water to uphold the fast’s sanctity, technically breaking the fast without eating a full meal, thus respecting both the fast and the sage’s presence.

When Sage Durvasa returned and found that King Ambarish had already sipped water (thereby breaking his fast), he felt disrespected and insulted. In his view, the king had not waited for him to begin the meal together, which was considered a breach of hospitality and etiquette. Durvasa, known for his quick temper, became furious and saw the king’s action as a personal affront. In his anger, Durvasa cursed King Ambarisha, but because of the king’s devotion and righteousness, Lord Vishnu sent his Sudarshana Chakra (divine discus) to protect the king. The Sudarshan Chakra chased Durvasa, who then realized his mistake and sought forgiveness from both Vishnu and King Ambarish. King Ambarish, being a humble and devout servant of Vishnu, forgave the sage, and the incident ended with Durvasa learning about the king’s devotion and the power of observing Ekadashi.

This story illustrates the significance of Ekadashi fasting, the virtue of forgiveness, and how true devotion to Lord Vishnu can protect and uphold righteousness.

Observance of Ekadashi

A Hindu month observes Ekadashi in the two phases of Shukla paksha, the brightening or waxing of moon, and Krushna paksha, fading of moon. The human body is greatly influenced by the magnetic pull of the moon. Fasting on Ekadashi aids in regulation of bodily fluids and maintenance of the body for a  peaceful mind and healthy body. Ekadashi is also associated with controlling all the ten senses and mind of the body to free oneself from getting enslaved by anger, arrogance, lust and the likes. The aim is to disconnect from the materialistic needs and focus on one’s consciousness. A person that is well fed easily slides into a state of comfort but one which is not, his mind stays proactive.

Throughout the year, a total of 24 such days occur, symbolising the avatars or reincarnations of god Vishnu. Worshipping lord Vishnu on Ekadashi is deemed to be highly beneficial as the deity showers blessings of prosperity, harmony, bliss and success upon its devotees. Furthermore, these fasts lessen the influence of malefic Grahas too.

Here are 24 Ekadashis observed in a Hindu lunar calendar year, each with its own significance and associated rituals. Here are the names of all the Ekadashis along with brief explanations of their significance:

1. Pausha Putrada Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Pausha (December – January). It is believed to bless childless couples with progeny and is dedicated to seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
2. Shattila Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Magha (January – February), Shattila Ekadashi is observed by some communities in North India. It is considered auspicious for Vishnu worship.
3. Jaya Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Magha (January – February), Jaya Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to bring victory and success.
4. Vijaya Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Phalguna (February – March), Vijaya Ekadashi is observed for seeking victory and overcoming obstacles. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
5. Amalaki Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Phalguna (February – March) and is dedicated to worshipping the Amla tree (Indian Gooseberry). It is believed to bestow health and well-being.
6. Papmochani Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Chaitra (March – April), Papmochani Ekadashi is observed for seeking forgiveness and liberation from sins. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
7. Kamada Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Chaitra (March – April), Kamada Ekadashi is believed to fulfill desires and wishes. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
8. Varuthini Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Vaishakha (April – May) and is observed for seeking purification and atonement. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
9. Mohini Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Vaishakha (April – May), Mohini Ekadashi is believed to bring beauty and enchantment. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
10. Apara Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Jyeshtha (May – June), Apara Ekadashi is observed for seeking forgiveness and spiritual growth. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
11. Nirjala Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Jyeshtha (May – June) and is considered one of the most significant Ekadashis. Devotees observe a strict fast without consuming food or water, seeking spiritual purification and blessings from Lord Vishnu.
12. Yogini Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Ashadha (June – July), Yogini Ekadashi is observed for spiritual discipline and self-control. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
13. Devshayani Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Ashadha (June – July), Devshayani Ekadashi marks the beginning of the Chaturmas period (the four auspicious months). It is observed for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu and is also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi.
14. Kamika Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Shravana (July – August) and is observed for seeking divine protection and blessings. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
15. Pavitra Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Shravana (July – August), Pavitra Ekadashi is observed for spiritual purification and cleansing of sins. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
16. Aja Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Bhadrapada (August – September), Aja Ekadashi is observed for seeking divine blessings and overcoming obstacles. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
17. Parsva Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Bhadrapada (August – September) and is observed for seeking spiritual merit and liberation. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
18. Indira Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Ashwin (September – October), Indira Ekadashi is observed for seeking prosperity and abundance. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
19. Papankusha Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Ashwin (September – October), Papankusha Ekadashi is observed for seeking liberation from sins and negative karma. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
20. Rama Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Kartika (October – November) and is observed for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is dedicated to Lord Rama.
21. Prabodhini Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Kartika (October – November), Prabodhini Ekadashi marks the end of the Chaturmas period and the beginning of wedding season in Hindu culture. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
22. Utpanna Ekadashi: Falling in the month of Margashirsha (November – December), Utpanna Ekadashi is observed for seeking prosperity and well-being. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
23. Mokshada Ekadashi: This Ekadashi falls in the month of Margashirsha (November – December) and is observed for seeking liberation and spiritual enlightenment. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
24. Saphala Ekadashi: Occurring in the month of Pausha (December – January), Saphala Ekadashi is observed for seeking success and fulfillment of desires. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Each Ekadashi holds its own significance and is observed with specific rituals and prayers by devotees seeking spiritual growth, blessings, and fulfillment of desires.

Prayers to do on Ekadashi

Here are some common prayers and rituals to perform on Ekadashi:

1. Vishnu Sahasranama

• Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama (The Thousand Names of Lord Vishnu) is highly recommended. This powerful chant praises the various attributes and forms of Lord Vishnu.

2. Ekadashi Mata Ki Aarti (Om Jai Ekadashi Mata)

• This aarti is typically sung on the Ekadashi day mostly after vrat katha in the evening to seek blessings from Ekadashi Mata and Lord Vishnu, ensuring peace, prosperity, and fulfillment of wishes.

3. Bhagavad Gita

• Reading or reciting chapters from the Bhagavad Gita, especially the 12th Chapter (Bhakti Yoga), is considered beneficial on Ekadashi.

4. Achyutam Keshavam

• Chanting the Achyutam Keshavam prayer is another beautiful way to connect with Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings.

5. Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

• Chanting the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” is a simple yet powerful way to meditate and focus on the divine form of Lord Vishnu.

6. Reading Vishnu-related Purans

• Reading stories from Srimad Bhagavatam or other Vishnu-related Purans can help deepen your understanding and devotion.

Ekadashi Fasting

Ekadashi vrat or fasting on this important day helps the body purify and prepare itself to attain Moksh or liberation, which is the ultimate goal of Hinduism. Cleansing of one’s soul too is a goal of this fasting. Only certain foods and water is permitted during this fast. Several followers of the religion fully stay away from any solid foods too.

Fasting on Ekadashi is a common practice among Hindus and followers of certain other Indian religions. It involves abstaining from food and sometimes water for the entire day, from sunrise to the following day’s sunrise, though variations in the fasting practice exist depending on individual beliefs and personal health considerations.

Here’s a general overview of fasting on Ekadashi:

1. Complete Fasting: Some individuals observe a strict fast, abstaining from all food and water throughout the day and night of Ekadashi. This is considered a more rigorous form of fasting and is typically practiced by those who are physically able to do so without risking their health.
2. Partial Fasting: Many people choose to observe a partial fast on Ekadashi, where they abstain from consuming grains, beans, certain vegetables, and other foods considered rajasic or tamasic. Instead, they may consume fruits, nuts, dairy products, and non-grain-based items. Some may also consume water or milk during the fasting period.
3. Sattvic Diet: Those observing Ekadashi often adhere to a sattvic diet, which consists of foods that are considered pure, light, and conducive to spiritual practices. This includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, milk, yogurt, and other dairy products.
4. Spiritual Practices: Alongside fasting, individuals may engage in various spiritual practices on Ekadashi, such as chanting prayers, reading scriptures, performing rituals, attending temple services, and spending time in meditation or contemplation.
5. Breaking the Fast: The fast is typically broken on the following day, Dwadashi, after sunrise. Some people break their fast with a simple meal of fruits, nuts, and other sattvic foods, while others may have a more substantial meal later in the day.
6. Intentions and Devotion: Fasting on Ekadashi is often undertaken with specific intentions, such as seeking spiritual purification, expressing devotion to a deity, or seeking blessings for oneself or loved ones.

Performing Ekadashi Vrat, or fasting on Ekadashi, involves observing certain rituals and practices to honor the significance of the day. Here’s a guide on how to perform Ekadashi Vrat:

1. Intention Setting: Begin by setting your intention for observing Ekadashi Vrat. Reflect on your reasons for fasting, whether it’s for spiritual purification, devotion to a deity, or personal growth.
2. Preparation: Plan your fasting day in advance. Stock up on sattvic foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy products that you’ll consume during the fasting period. You may also prepare any special dishes or offerings for the deity you worship.
3. Abstinence: On the day of Ekadashi, abstain from consuming grains, beans, certain vegetables, non-vegetarian food, and other items considered rajasic or tamasic. Some individuals may also abstain from consuming water or consume it sparingly.
4. Sattvic Diet: Stick to a sattvic diet throughout the day, consuming light and easily digestible foods such as fruits, nuts, milk, yogurt, and cooked vegetables. Avoid spicy, oily, and heavy foods.
5. Spiritual Practices: Engage in spiritual practices such as chanting prayers, reading sacred texts, performing rituals, attending temple services, or spending time in meditation and introspection. Use this time to deepen your spiritual connection and cultivate inner peace.
6. Service and Charity: Consider performing acts of service or charity on Ekadashi, such as helping those in need, feeding the hungry, or donating to charitable causes. Generosity and compassion are integral aspects of spiritual practice.
7. Breaking the Fast: On the following day, Dwadashi, break your fast after sunrise. Start with a simple meal of fruits, nuts, and other sattvic foods to ease your digestive system back into regular eating. You may later have a more substantial meal as per your preference.
8. Gratitude: Express gratitude for the opportunity to observe Ekadashi Vrat and for any spiritual insights or blessings you may have received during the fasting period. Reflect on the experience and consider how you can carry its lessons forward in your life.

Throughout the process, maintain a reverent and mindful attitude, focusing on the spiritual significance of Ekadashi and its role in your personal journey of growth and devotion. Overall, Ekadashi is a sacred and revered day in Hinduism, offering devotees an opportunity for spiritual purification, devotion, and progress on the path to liberation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual practices in leading a meaningful and fulfilling life. Overall, fasting on Ekadashi is seen as an opportunity for spiritual purification, self-discipline, and devotion within Hindu tradition. It is a time for individuals to reflect on their spiritual path and deepen their connection with the divine.