There are 24 Ekadashis in a year and 26 in Adhikamas. This fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and fasting purifies the mind, body and soul. Nirjala, Devuthani, Utpana, Shattila and Amalaki Ekadashi are considered important. On this day, all troubles are removed by worshiping Lord Vishnu, offering Tulsi and donating.
Ekadashi Fast: Ekadashi fast has a very special place in Hindu religion. It is important not only from religious point of view, but also scientifically, the fasting day purifies both the body and mind. It is said that by observing Ekadashi fast, Lord Vishnu is pleased and the devotees get freedom from sins. Let us know how many Ekadashis there are in a year, what is their importance and what to do and what not to do on this day.
There are 24 Ekadashis every year. Twice in every month, one on the eleventh day of Shukla Paksha and the other on the eleventh day of Krishna Paksha, when Adhikamas (Purushottam month) occurs, then the number of Ekadashi increases to 26. Every Ekadashi has a different name and different religious significance.
Among these, the most difficult and fruitful is considered to be Nirjala Ekadashi, which is celebrated by fasting without water. It is said that if a person is not able to observe Ekadashis for the whole year, then only by fasting on Nirjala Ekadashi one can attain the virtue of all the Ekadashis.
Ekadashi fast is considered a day of purification of both body and soul. Religiously, this fast is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Scientifically, fasting removes the toxins accumulated in the body and gives relief to the digestive system. On this day, it is considered most important to maintain purity in mind, words and deeds.
It is celebrated in the Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha month. Even water is not consumed on this day. It is believed that the person who observes only this fast gets the results of the Ekadashis of the whole year.
It is celebrated in Kartik Shukla Paksha. On this day Lord Vishnu wakes up from four months of sleep. The beginning of auspicious functions like marriage, house warming etc. is considered auspicious from this date.
First Ekadashi of Margashirsha month. This fast is considered to provide salvation. Fasting with devotion brings peace and success in life.
It is celebrated in the Krishna Paksha of Magh month. Sesame has special importance in this. On this day, offering and donating sesame seeds to Lord Vishnu removes poverty.
It is celebrated in Phalgun Shukla Paksha. Amla tree is worshiped on this day. It is believed that Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi reside in the Amla tree on this day.
Take bath in the morning before sunrise and resolve to fast. Meditate on Lord Vishnu and anoint him with Tulsi water. Offer sandalwood, flowers and lamps to Lord Vishnu. Also worship Goddess Lakshmi, because she is worshiped along with Lord Vishnu on this day. Listening to the story or reciting Vishnu Sahasranama in the evening is considered auspicious. After completing the fast, do charity. Donating sesame seeds, grains and clothes is especially fruitful.
One should not eat food on Dashami night.
Consumption of rice and tamasic food is prohibited.
Avoid wearing black colored clothes on this day.
Stay away from lies, anger and violence. These reduce the sanctity of the fast.
On the day of Ekadashi, chant Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya mantra. Light a lamp near the Tulsi plant and offer water to it. Donate food, water or clothes to the needy. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Geeta in the evening.
