Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Vamana Ekadashi or Parivartini Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapada, which typically occurs in August or September. This Ekadashi is especially important because it marks a pivotal moment during the Chaturmas period, the four holy months of the Hindu calendar when Lord Vishnu is believed to be in a state of deep meditation.
In Sanskrit, Ekadashi means eleven. 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.
Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Parivartini Ekadashi or Vamana Ekadashi, is a significant observance in the Hindu tradition, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It occurs on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, typically falling in August or September. This Ekadashi holds special importance during the Chaturmas period, the four sacred months of the Hindu calendar when Lord Vishnu is believed to be in a state of deep meditation.
Significance of Parsva Ekadashi:
- Vishnu’s Parivartan (Turning): According to Hindu tradition, on this day, Lord Vishnu, who is in a state of deep sleep (Yoga Nidra) on his serpent bed (Sheshnag) in the Kshirsagar (cosmic ocean of milk), turns from his left side to his right. This event is known as “Parivartini” or “Parsva” (meaning turning). It is believed that from this day onward, the second half of the Chaturmas period begins.
- Vamana Avatar: Parsva Ekadashi is also associated with the Vaman avatar, one of the ten incarnations (Dashavatara) of Lord Vishnu. This avatar is particularly significant as it marks the event when Lord Vishnu incarnated as the dwarf Brahmin Vamana to subdue the demon king Bali and restore cosmic balance.
- Spiritual Significance: Observing Parsva Ekadashi is believed to cleanse the soul of past sins, bring spiritual protection, and guide devotees toward liberation (moksha). It is a day for fasting, prayer, and reflection on the virtues of humility, devotion, and surrender to the divine will.
The Legend of Parsva Ekadashi:
The story behind Parsva Ekadashi is closely linked to the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu.
The Story of King Bali:
King Bali, a powerful and benevolent demon king, was known for his generosity and devotion. Despite being a demon, he was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. Due to his growing power and influence, Bali came to dominate the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the netherworld), causing concern among the gods.
To curb Bali’s growing power, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, a young dwarf Brahmin, and approached King Bali during a yajna (sacrifice) that he was performing. Vamana asked Bali for a simple gift—three paces of land measured by his small feet. Being a generous and honorable king, Bali agreed to the request, despite warnings from his advisor, Shukracharya, who sensed something divine about Vamana.
As soon as Bali granted the boon, Vamana began to grow in size until he became so large that his first step covered the entire earth, and his second step covered the heavens. With no space left for the third step, Bali offered his own head as the place for Vamana to step. Pleased with Bali’s humility and devotion, Vamana placed his foot on Bali’s head, pushing him down to the netherworld but granting him the boon of being the ruler of that realm.
Lord Vishnu was so impressed by Bali’s devotion that he granted him the boon of being worshiped during the Onam festival, and he also agreed to be Bali’s doorkeeper in the netherworld.
Spiritual Significance:
The legend underscores the themes of humility, devotion, and the importance of surrendering to the divine will. Parsva Ekadashi is a day to reflect on these virtues and to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for spiritual progress and protection.
Observance of Parsva Ekadashi:
- Fasting: As with other Ekadashis, fasting is a key aspect of the observance. Devotees abstain from consuming grains, beans, and certain other foods. Some may observe a strict fast without food and water, while others may take fruits, milk, and nuts.
- Worship and Prayer: Devotees offer prayers to Lord Vishnu, especially in his Vamana avatar, and recite Vishnu Sahasranama or other scriptures. Temples often hold special rituals and ceremonies on this day.
- Charity and Spiritual Acts: Engaging in acts of charity and helping those in need is also considered highly auspicious.
- Night Vigil: Many devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, bhajans, and meditation, reflecting on the virtues of devotion and humility.
Benefits of Observing Parsva Ekadashi:
Observing Parsva Ekadashi is believed to cleanse one of sins, protect from negative influences, and bestow spiritual blessings. It is a day to seek the grace of Lord Vishnu, reaffirm one’s commitment to the path of righteousness, and progress toward liberation.
Parsva Ekadashi is thus a spiritually enriching observance, reminding devotees of the importance of humility, devotion, and surrender to the divine.
