The Origin of Ekadashi
According to Hindu scriptures, Ekadashi is a goddess who emerged from Lord Vishnu to defeat the demon Mura. Pleased with her devotion, Lord Vishnu granted her the boon that anyone who observes a fast on this day will be freed from sins and attain Moksha. It is believed that on Ekadashi, avoiding grains allows the body and mind to align with cosmic rhythms.
Spiritual Benefit: Peace of mind, removal of negative karma, and divine blessings.
Allowed (Satvik)
- Fruits and Nuts
- Milk and Dairy Products
- Sabudana (Tapioca)
- Rajgira and Singhara Flour
- Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes
- Sama Rice (Barnyard Millet)
Restricted (Tamasic)
- All Grains (Rice, Wheat, Maize)
- Beans and Pulses
- Onion and Garlic
- Non-vegetarian food
- Alcohol
Fasting Variants
Nirjala: Strict fast without water (observed on Nirjala Ekadashi).
Phalahar: Consuming only fruits, milk, and permitted root vegetables.
Devotees should avoid sleep during the day and maintain celibacy.
Step-by-Step Worship
- Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat and take a holy bath.
- Clean the puja altar and place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu.
- Offer Tulsi leaves (crucial), flowers, sandalwood paste, and incense.
- Light a ghee lamp (Diya) and chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya".
- Read the specific Ekadashi Vrat Katha for the month.
- Perform Aarti and offer Sathvik Bhog (fruits/milk/sweets).
Mantra to Chant
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Required Samagri
Tulsi Leaves, Yellow Flowers, Sandalwood Paste, Ghee Lamp, Incense Sticks, Fruits, Gangajal
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast must be broken the next day (Dwadashi) within the specific Parana time, usually after sunrise but before the end of Dwadashi tithi.
Timing Note: Do not break the fast during Hari Vasara (first 1/4th of Dwadashi). Wait for it to end.