Ekadashi Vrat

Unlock Blessings with Ekadashi Vrat: Significance and Rituals" encapsulates the essence of Ekadashi Vrat, highlighting its importance and the customary practices associated with it. This title conveys that observing Ekadashi Vrat can lead to spiritual blessings, while also hinting at the rituals involved in this sacred Hindu observance.

Ekadashi Vrat 2024 Dates
Month Date Day Vrat Name

January

07 January, 2024

Sunday

Saphala Ekadashi(K)

January

21 January, 2024

Sunday

Pausha Putrada Ekadashi(S)

February

06 February, 2024

Tuesday

Shattila Ekadashi(K)

February

20 February, 2024

Tuesday

Jaya Ekadashi(S)

March

06 March, 2024

Wednesday

Vijaya Ekadashi(K)

March

20 March, 2024

Wednesday

Amalaki Ekadashi(S)

April

05 April, 2024

Friday

Papmochani Ekadashi(K)

April

19 April, 2024

Friday

Kamada Ekadashi(S)

May

04 May, 2024

Saturday

Vaishnava Varuthini Ekadashi(K)

May

19 May, 2024

Sunday

Mohini Ekadashi(S)

June

02 June, 2024

Sunday

Apara Ekadashi(K)

June

17 June, 2024

Monday

Nirjala Ekadashi(S)

June

18 June, 2024

Tuesday

Nirjala Ekadashi(S)

July

02 July, 2024

Tuesday

Yogini Ekadashi(K)

July

17 July, 2024

Wednesday

Devshayani Ekadashi(S)

July

31 July, 2024

Wednesday

Vaishnava Kamika Ekadashi(K)

August

16 August, 2024

Friday

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi(S)

August

29 August, 2024

Thursday

Aja Ekadashi(K)

September

14 September, 2024

Saturday

Parsva Ekadashi(S)

September

28 September, 2024

Saturday

Indira Ekadashi(K)

October

14 October, 2024

Monday

Papankusha Ekadashi(S)

October

27 October, 2024

Sunday

Rama Ekadashi(K)

October

28 October, 2024

Monday

Rama Ekadashi(K)

November

12 November, 2024

Tuesday

Devutthana Ekadashi(S)

November

26 November, 2024

Tuesday

Utpanna Ekadashi(K)

December

11 December, 2024

Wednesday

Mokshada Ekadashi(S)

December

26 December, 2024

Thursday

Saphala Ekadashi(K)

Ekadashi: A Devoted Observance for Lord Vishnu's Grace

The eleventh lunar day (tithi) in the Hindu calendar, Ekadashi, is a time steeped in spiritual significance. Referred to as "Hari Vasara" or "Hari din," it's a period of dedication and self-control observed by both Vaishnava and non-Vaishnava communities. Revered texts like the Padma Purana and Skanda Purana sing praises of Ekadashi's importance.

On this special day, devotees focus their devotion on Lord Vishnu, seeking his blessings for overall prosperity. Observing a fast is the core practice of Ekadashi. Devotees abstain from grains, vegetables, and other specific foods, demonstrating their commitment and inner discipline.

Ekadashi Practices and Rituals

Ekadashi observances begin early on the tenth day (Dashami). Devotees rise before sunrise, perform their morning prayers, and often take a vow to undertake the fast. The day revolves around worshipping Lord Vishnu with devotion. Offerings like holy basil (tulsi), sacred Ganges water (Gangajal), and panchamrit (a five-ingredient nectar) are presented with sincerity.

There are two primary ways to observe the Ekadashi fast:

Nirjala: Devotees practice complete self-denial, abstaining from all food and water for the entire day. Falahar: Devotees can consume specific foods like fruits, milk products, and certain vegetables, but only after offering them to Lord Vishnu. However, breaking the Ekadashi fast (Vrat Parana) is a separate ritual performed on the following day (Dwadashi).

Ekadashi Vrat Parana: Breaking the Fast with Gratitude

Ekadashi Vrat Parana signifies the proper way to conclude the Ekadashi fast. This ritual occurs specifically during the first quarter of the day (Hari Vasara) after sunrise on Dwadashi. Traditionally, devotees express their gratitude by donating food to Brahmins or helping the needy on this day.

Ekadashi Fasting Do's and Don'ts: A Guide

Here are some key things to remember when observing Ekadashi:

Consumption: Limit yourself to one meal a day, excluding salt. You can consume milk products, fresh and dry fruits, or permitted vegetables.

Fasting Options: Sabudana Khichdi with peanuts or potatoes is a popular choice. Avoid lentils, honey, rice, and non-vegetarian food, including alcohol.

Nirjala Ekadashi: Some devotees choose the most rigorous path, observing complete fasting, abstaining even from water.

Dwadashi Observance: Begin Dwadashi with a purifying bath, followed by prayers to Lord Vishnu. Break the fast by consuming food prepared on Dashami.

Ekadashi, with its emphasis on devotion and self-restraint, offers a path to spiritual purification and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.