Ekadashi is a Hindu festival that is observed on the eleventh day of each lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar. It is a day of fasting and devotion for Hindus, and is considered to be a very auspicious day for spiritual practice. During Ekadashi, Hindus typically abstain from eating grains and beans, and instead focus on spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and chanting. Some Hindus also perform special rituals or visit temples on this day. The specific practices and rituals associated with Ekadashi may vary depending on the region and tradition within Hinduism.
Ekadashi is observed twice a month, on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) and the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha). Each Ekadashi has a specific name and is associated with a particular deity or purpose.
Ekadashi is a Sanskrit word that means “eleven,” referring to the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight. It is also sometimes referred to as “Hari Vasara,” meaning “the day of Lord Vishnu.”
Some Hindus observe a complete fast on Ekadashi, abstaining from all food and drink. Others may eat only a restricted diet, such as only fruits and vegetables.
The fast is typically broken the following day, known as Dwadashi. Many Hindus also perform special rituals or visit temples on Dwadashi.
The purpose of Ekadashi is to purify the body and mind and to cultivate devotion and spiritual discipline. It is believed to be a time when the gates of heaven are open, and people can more easily connect with the divine.
There are many stories and legends associated with Ekadashi in Hindu mythology, and each Ekadashi is believed to have its own special significance and blessings.
Some Hindus observe Ekadashi by performing extra puja (worship) or reciting mantras and prayers, especially to Lord Vishnu.
Many Hindus also read and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama (a list of 1,000 names of Lord Vishnu) or other holy texts such as the Bhagavad Gita on Ekadashi.
Some Hindus also visit temples or perform special rituals at home on Ekadashi, such as lighting lamps or incense, making offerings of flowers or food, and singing devotional songs.
Many Hindus believe that observing Ekadashi brings spiritual benefits, such as purification of the mind and body, increased devotion and devotion to God, and the opportunity to earn blessings and merit.
In addition to the spiritual significance of Ekadashi, it is also a time for social and community gatherings in many Hindu communities. People may come together for special religious events or to participate in collective fasts and rituals.
There are many different legends and stories associated with Ekadashi in Hindu mythology. One popular legend is the story of King Mandhata, who is said to have observed an Ekadashi fast and been granted a long and prosperous reign.
Some Hindus also believe that observing an Ekadashi fast can help to remove past sins and negative karma.
In some Hindu traditions, it is believed that observing an Ekadashi fast can bring prosperity and good fortune, as well as protect one from illness and accidents.
Some Hindus also observe an Ekadashi fast as a form of penance or as a way to seek blessings and protection from God.
It is common for Hindus to perform special rituals or make offerings to the deity on Ekadashi. These may include lighting lamps or incense, making offerings of flowers or food, and singing devotional songs.
Some Hindus observe an Ekadashi fast as a way to show devotion and surrender to God. This may involve abstaining from certain activities or behaviors that are considered to be distractions from spiritual practice, such as indulging in sensual pleasures or engaging in conflict with others.
In some Hindu traditions, it is believed that observing an Ekadashi fast can help to increase devotion and bring one closer to God. This may involve focusing on spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and chanting, or engaging in devotional activities such as reading holy texts or visiting temples.
Some Hindus also observe an Ekadashi fast as a way to practice self-control and discipline. By abstaining from certain foods or activities, they may seek to cultivate self-control and strengthen their resolve to follow a spiritual path.
In addition to the spiritual benefits of Ekadashi, it is also a time for social and community gatherings in many Hindu communities. People may come together for special religious events or to participate in collective fasts and rituals.
The specific practices and rituals associated with Ekadashi may vary depending on the region and tradition within Hinduism. In some regions, it is common for people to visit temples or make offerings to the deity on Ekadashi. In other regions, people may focus more on personal spiritual practices such as meditation and prayer.
Some Hindus observe an Ekadashi fast as a way to seek blessings and protection from God. They may pray for specific things, such as health, prosperity, or the resolution of problems or difficulties.
In addition to abstaining from certain foods and activities, some Hindus also observe additional restrictions on Ekadashi. For example, they may avoid certain types of work or avoid engaging in activities that are considered to be distractions from spiritual practice.
The observance of Ekadashi is not limited to Hindus. People of other religions may also observe an Ekadashi fast as a way to cultivate discipline and devotion.
Some Hindus believe that observing an Ekadashi fast can bring blessings and protection from God, as well as purify the mind and body. It is also believed to be a time when the gates of heaven are open, and people can more easily connect with the divine.
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Ekadashi in January 2023
In January, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Paush Ekadashi (also known as Putrada Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Paush (usually falls in January). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for children.
Shattila Ekadashi (also known as Mokshada Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Paush (usually falls in January). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Ekadashi in February 2023
In February, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Jaya Ekadashi (also known as Vijaya Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Magh (usually falls in February). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking victory over enemies and obstacles.
Vijaya Ekadashi (also known as Jaya Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Magh (usually falls in February). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking victory over enemies and obstacles, and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi in March 2023
In March, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Amalaki Ekadashi (also known as Phalguna Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Phalguna (usually falls in March). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for health and longevity.
Papmochani Ekadashi (also known as Chaitra Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Phalguna (usually falls in March). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking liberation from sins and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi in April 2023
In April, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Kamada Ekadashi (also known as Chaitra Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Chaitra (usually falls in April). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Varuthini Ekadashi (also known as Vaishakha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Chaitra (usually falls in April). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking protection from danger and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi in May 2023
In May, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Mohini Ekadashi (also known as Vaishakha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Vaishakha (usually falls in May). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Apara Ekadashi (also known as Jyeshtha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Vaishakha (usually falls in May). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi in June 2023
In June, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Apara Ekadashi (also known as Jyeshtha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (usually falls in June). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Purnima Ekadashi (also known as Ashadha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (usually falls in June). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
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Ekadashi in July 2023
In July, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Pavitropana Ekadashi (also known as Ashadha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashadha (usually falls in July). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for purity and spiritual growth.
Aja Ekadashi (also known as Shravana Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashadha (usually falls in July). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Ekadashi in August 2023
In August, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Padma Ekadashi (also known as Shravana Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Shravana (usually falls in August). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Indira Ekadashi (also known as Bhadra Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Shravana (usually falls in August). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Ekadashi in September 2023
In September, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Parsva Ekadashi (also known as Bhadra Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Bhadra (usually falls in September). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Yogini Ekadashi (also known as Ashvin Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Bhadra (usually falls in September). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Ekadashi in October 2023
In October, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Prabodhini Ekadashi (also known as Ashvin Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashvin (usually falls in October). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Aja Ekadashi (also known as Kartik Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashvin (usually falls in October). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Ekadashi in November 2023
In November, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Mokshada Ekadashi (also known as Kartik Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Kartik (usually falls in November). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for seeking liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and for the worship of Lord Vishnu.
Utpanna Ekadashi (also known as Margashirsha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Kartik (usually falls in November). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Ekadashi in December 2023
In December, there are two Ekadashi days that are observed:
Saphala Ekadashi (also known as Margashirsha Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Margashirsha (usually falls in December). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for prosperity and material well-being.
Putrada Ekadashi (also known as Paush Ekadashi) – This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu month of Margashirsha (usually falls in December). It is believed to be an especially auspicious day for the worship of Lord Vishnu and for seeking blessings for children.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ekadashi
Why is Ekadashi celebrated?
Ekadashi is a Hindu festival that is celebrated on the 11th day of each lunar month in the Hindu calendar. It is a day of fasting and spiritual discipline and is observed by devout Hindus around the world. The word “Ekadashi” means “eleven,” and refers to the 11th day of the Hindu lunar month.
There are many different reasons why Ekadashi is celebrated. For some Hindus, it is a way to purify the body and mind, and to draw closer to God. Others see it as a way to seek blessings and spiritual guidance, or to overcome problems and challenges in life.
Ekadashi is also seen as an opportunity to cultivate self-control and detachment from material possessions, as practitioners are expected to abstain from certain activities and foods during the fast. The fast is broken the following day, which is known as Dwadashi.
Ekadashi is celebrated with prayers, rituals, and devotional practices, and is an important part of the Hindu religious calendar. It is believed to bring blessings and spiritual benefits to those who observe it with devotion and sincerity.
Which days are Ekadashi?
In the Hindu lunar calendar, Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of each lunar month. There are two lunar months in a solar year, and each lunar month has two Ekadashi days, for a total of 24 Ekadashi days per year. The specific dates of Ekadashi vary from year to year, as the Hindu lunar calendar is based on the movement of the moon.
The dates of Ekadashi can be determined using a Panchang, which is a Hindu calendar that provides detailed information about the movements of the sun, moon, and planets. Panchangs can be found online or in Hindu religious texts.
Ekadashi is an important day of fasting and spiritual discipline in the Hindu tradition, and is observed by devout Hindus around the world. It is a time for prayer, reflection, and devotion, and is believed to bring blessings and spiritual benefits to those who observe it with sincerity and devotion.
Which Ekadashi is most powerful?
In the Hindu tradition, all Ekadashi days are considered to be powerful and auspicious for spiritual practice and devotion. Each Ekadashi has its own specific significance and is associated with different legends, stories, and rituals. Some of the most well-known and widely celebrated Ekadashi days include:
Vaikuntha Ekadashi: This Ekadashi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Margashirsha (November-December) and is associated with the deity Vishnu. It is believed to be especially powerful for attaining liberation and spiritual enlightenment.
Jaya Ekadashi: This Ekadashi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Paush (December-January) and is associated with the deity Krishna. It is believed to bring victory and success in all endeavors.
Pavitra Ekadashi: This Ekadashi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Magha (January-February) and is associated with the deity Shiva. It is believed to bring purification and liberation from sin.
Papmochani Ekadashi: This Ekadashi is celebrated in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April) and is associated with the deity Brahma. It is believed to bring forgiveness and the removal of sin.
Each Ekadashi day is considered to be powerful and auspicious for spiritual practice and devotion, and devotees may choose to focus on the specific deity or aspect of divinity associated with that particular Ekadashi.
Is Ekadashi fasting good?
Ekadashi fasting, also known as the Ekadashi vrat, is a Hindu religious practice in which practitioners abstain from certain activities and foods for a period of 24 hours, from sunrise to sunrise. It is typically observed on the 11th day of each lunar month in the Hindu calendar and is believed to bring blessings and spiritual benefits to those who observe it with devotion and sincerity.
Ekadashi fasting is generally considered to be a beneficial practice for both physical and spiritual well-being. It can help to purify the body and mind, and to cultivate self-control and detachment from material possessions. It can also provide an opportunity for spiritual growth and deepening one’s connection with the divine.
However, it is important to note that Ekadashi fasting may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider or spiritual advisor before undertaking any fast or change in diet. It is also important to ensure that the fast is observed in a safe and healthy manner, and to break the fast gradually to avoid any adverse effects on the body.
Can we drink water on Ekadashi?
In the Hindu tradition, the specifics of the Ekadashi fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices. Some people may choose to abstain from all food and drink during the fast, while others may allow themselves to consume certain types of food or drink.
Traditionally, the Ekadashi fast involves abstaining from all grains, beans, and legumes, as well as from certain other foods and activities. The fast is typically broken the following day, which is known as Dwadashi.
In general, it is considered acceptable to drink water during the Ekadashi fast. Some people may also choose to consume certain types of liquids, such as fruit juices or coconut water, during the fast. However, it is important to keep in mind that the specifics of the Ekadashi fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices, and it is always a good idea to consult with a spiritual advisor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.
Can we sleep on Ekadashi night?
In the Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is a day of fasting and spiritual discipline, and it is considered to be a good time for spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and devotion. Some people may choose to stay awake throughout the night of Ekadashi in order to engage in these practices or to spend time in the company of spiritual teachings.
However, it is also considered acceptable to sleep during the night of Ekadashi, as long as it does not interfere with one’s ability to observe the fast and engage in spiritual practices. It is important to remember that the purpose of Ekadashi is to cultivate spiritual discipline and devotion, and that the specific practices and rituals associated with the fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices. It is always a good idea to consult with a spiritual advisor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or daily routine.
Can unmarried girl do Ekadashi?
In the Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is a day of fasting and spiritual discipline that is observed by people of all ages and genders, including unmarried girls. It is a voluntary practice that is undertaken as a way to cultivate spiritual discipline and devotion, and to seek blessings and spiritual guidance.
There is no specific prohibition against unmarried girls observing the Ekadashi fast, and many unmarried girls may choose to do so as a way to participate in the spiritual life of their community and to deepen their connection with the divine.
However, it is important to note that the Ekadashi fast may not be suitable for everyone, and it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or spiritual advisor before undertaking any fast or change in diet. It is also important to ensure that the fast is observed in a safe and healthy manner, and to break the fast gradually to avoid any adverse effects on the body.
How to break Ekadasi fast?
In the Hindu tradition, the Ekadashi fast is typically broken the following day, which is known as Dwadashi. The specifics of how to break the fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices, but there are some general guidelines that are commonly followed.
It is generally recommended to break the fast gradually, by starting with small amounts of easy-to-digest foods and gradually increasing the quantity and variety of foods consumed over the course of the day. Some people may choose to begin by consuming liquids, such as fruit juice or coconut water, and then move on to lighter foods such as fruits and vegetables. More substantial foods, such as grains and legumes, can be introduced later in the day.
It is also important to ensure that the foods consumed during and after the fast are healthy and nourishing, and to avoid overeating or indulging in unhealthy foods. It is also a good idea to stay well-hydrated, as the body may be slightly dehydrated after the fast.
It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or spiritual advisor before undertaking any fast or change in diet, and to follow their guidance on how to break the fast safely and effectively.
Can we wash hair on Ekadashi?
In the Hindu tradition, the specifics of the Ekadashi fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices. Some people may choose to abstain from certain activities or behaviors during the fast, while others may allow themselves to engage in certain activities.
It is generally considered acceptable to wash hair on Ekadashi, as long as it does not interfere with one’s ability to observe the fast and engage in spiritual practices. Some people may choose to abstain from washing their hair on Ekadashi as a way to cultivate discipline and detachment from material possessions, while others may consider it to be an important aspect of personal hygiene and grooming that can be maintained even during the fast.
It is always a good idea to consult with a spiritual advisor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or daily routine, and to follow their guidance on how to observe the Ekadashi fast safely and effectively.
Is Ekadashi good for marriage?
In the Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is a day of fasting and spiritual discipline that is observed by people of all ages and stages of life, including those who are married or planning to marry. It is a voluntary practice that is undertaken as a way to cultivate spiritual discipline and devotion, and to seek blessings and spiritual guidance.
There is no specific tradition or belief that associates Ekadashi with marriage or that suggests that observing the Ekadashi fast is particularly beneficial for marriage.
However, it is possible that some people may choose to observe the Ekadashi fast as a way to seek blessings and guidance for their marriage or to cultivate qualities such as self-control, detachment, and devotion, which may be beneficial in any relationship.
It is always a good idea to consult with a spiritual advisor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or daily routine, and to follow their guidance on how to observe the Ekadashi fast safely and effectively.
What are the rules of Ekadashi?
In the Hindu tradition, the rules and practices associated with the Ekadashi fast may vary depending on the individual and their spiritual practices. However, there are some general guidelines that are commonly followed. Some of the common rules and practices associated with the Ekadashi fast include:
Abstaining from certain foods and activities: During the Ekadashi fast, practitioners may choose to abstain from certain foods and activities, such as grains, beans, legumes, and certain types of meat, as well as from certain behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and sexual activity.
Fasting from sunrise to sunrise: The Ekadashi fast is typically observed from sunrise to sunrise, for a period of 24 hours.
Engaging in spiritual practices: Ekadashi is a day of spiritual discipline and devotion, and practitioners may choose to engage in practices such as prayer, meditation, and devotion to the deity associated with that particular Ekadashi.
Seeking blessings and guidance: Many people observe the Ekadashi fast as a way to seek blessings and guidance from the divine, and to overcome problems and challenges in life.
It is always a good idea to consult with a spiritual advisor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or daily routine, and to follow their guidance on how to observe the Ekadashi fast safely and effectively.
What does Ekadashi symbolize?
In the Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is a day of fasting and spiritual discipline that is observed on the 11th day of each lunar month in the Hindu calendar. The word “Ekadashi” means “eleven,” and refers to the 11th day of the Hindu lunar month.
Ekadashi is a time for purification and devotion, and is believed to bring blessings and spiritual benefits to those who observe it with sincerity and devotion. It is a day for seeking guidance and blessings from the divine, and for cultivating qualities such as self-control, detachment, and devotion.
Ekadashi is also seen as an opportunity to draw closer to God and to cultivate a deeper spiritual connection. It is a time for seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment, and for overcoming problems and challenges in life.
In the Hindu tradition, Ekadashi is an important day that is revered and celebrated by devout Hindus around the world. It is a time for spiritual practices and devotion, and is believed to bring blessings and spiritual benefits to those who observe it with sincerity and devotion.
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