“Pavitra Ekadashi” is one of the important fasting days observed by Hindus, particularly those who worship Lord Vishnu. It falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Shravan, which typically occurs in July or August.
Pavitra Ekadashi, also known as Putrada Ekadashi, is a significant observance in the Hindu tradition, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls on the 11th day of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) during the Hindu month of Shravan, typically in July or August. The term “Pavitra” means “pure,” and “Ekadashi” refers to the 11th day of the lunar fortnight, making this day a time for spiritual purification and devotion.
Significance:
- Spiritual Purification: The term “Pavitra” means pure, and “Ekadashi” refers to the 11th day. Observing this Ekadashi is believed to purify the mind and body and help devotees attain spiritual upliftment.
- Vrat (Fasting): On Pavitra Ekadashi, devotees usually fast and refrain from consuming grains, rice, and certain other foods. Some observe a strict fast without food and water, while others may consume fruits, milk, and other permissible items.
- Spiritual Significance: Pavitra Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious for attaining spiritual purity and divine blessings. It is particularly revered by couples who seek the blessings of a child, as it is believed to grant the boon of progeny.
- Worship: Devotees typically worship Lord Vishnu on this day, offering special prayers, flowers, and sometimes even tying a sacred thread (Pavitra) to deities, symbolizing purity and dedication.
Rituals:
- Morning Rituals: Devotees take a holy bath early in the morning and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. The day is spent in devotion, including reading scriptures, singing bhajans, and meditating.
- Evening Rituals: In the evening, devotees light lamps and continue with prayers. The fast is usually broken the next day after performing morning rituals.
Legend:
There are several legends associated with Pavitra Ekadashi. One popular story is about the importance of observing Ekadashi as told by Lord Krushna to Yudhishthir in the Mahabharat, emphasizing its significance for spiritual purification and attaining moksh (liberation).
The story behind Pavitra Ekadashi, also known as Putrada Ekadashi, revolves around the importance of the fast and its power to grant devotees the boon of progeny. This Ekadashi is particularly significant for couples desiring children, and the legend associated with it is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology.
The Legend of Pavitra Ekadashi:
Once, there was a pious king named Mahijit who ruled the kingdom of Mahishmati. Despite being a righteous and just ruler, he and his queen were troubled by the fact that they did not have a child, which caused them great distress. Their subjects, too, were concerned because they feared the kingdom would be left without a successor.
The king and queen tried everything—prayers, rituals, and offerings to various deities—but nothing seemed to work. Desperate, King Mahijit consulted the learned sages of his kingdom for advice. The sages, after deep meditation, discovered that the king was childless due to a sin he had committed in a previous life. In that life, he had taken water from a cow, which was the only source of nourishment for its calf, leading to its suffering.
The sages informed the king that the only way to atone for his past sin and obtain the blessings of a child was to observe the fast of Pavitra Ekadashi with full devotion. The king and queen followed the advice of the sages, observing the fast with great faith and devotion.
Pleased with their sincere penance, Lord Vishnu appeared before the king and queen. He blessed them, saying that they would soon be blessed with a virtuous and wise son who would continue the dynasty and bring glory to the kingdom.
As promised, the queen gave birth to a son, who grew up to be a noble and wise prince, ensuring the prosperity and continuity of the kingdom. The story highlights the power of Ekadashi fasting and the blessings that come from sincere devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Moral of the Story:
The legend of Pavitra Ekadashi emphasizes the importance of devotion, repentance, and the observance of sacred rituals. It teaches that sincere faith and penance can cleanse one of past sins and bring divine blessings, including the fulfillment of deep desires like having children. The story also illustrates the mercy and compassion of Lord Vishnu, who responds to the sincere prayers of his devotees.
Benefits:
Observing Pavitra Ekadashi is believed to bring spiritual benefits, including cleansing of sins, protection from negative influences, and progress on the path of spiritual enlightenment. It is also a way to develop discipline and control over one’s desires.
Connection to Festivals:
Pavitra Ekadashi is also linked to the start of the Jhulan Yatra, where the deities, particularly Lord Krushna and Radha, are placed on a swing and celebrated with devotion and joy.
Pavitra Ekadashi is a day of spiritual renewal, where devotees seek to purify their minds and bodies, deepen their connection with the divine, and attain the blessings of Lord Vishnu for prosperity, happiness, and the fulfillment of their wishes.
