Ekadashi, double devotion: Two Ekadashi will be celebrated
New Delhi, September 4, 2024: Devotees of Lord Vishnu have a reason to rejoice this September! The month holds not one, but two auspicious Ekadashis – days dedicated to fasting and prayer.
What is Ekadashi?
Ekadashi, which translates to “eleventh” in Sanskrit, falls on the eleventh day of the waxing (Shukla Paksha) or waning (Krishna Paksha) moon in a Hindu lunar month. Throughout the year, there are 24 Ekadashis, each with its own significance.
September 2024: A Month of Double Blessings
This September, we are blessed with two Ekadashis – Parivartini Ekadashi and Indira Ekadashi.
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Parivartini Ekadashi falls on Saturday, September 14th, 2024. It is also known as Bhadrapada Shukla Ekadashi.
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Indira Ekadashi falls on Saturday, September 28th, 2024. It is also known as Ashvina Krishna Ekadashi.
Observing Ekadashi: A Day of Fasting and Devotion
Ekadashi is a day for devotees to observe a strict fast. This typically involves abstaining from all food and water for a 24-hour period. The fast usually begins on the day before Ekadashi, around sunset, and concludes the next day after sunrise.
Preparing for the Fast
Devotees prepare for the Ekadashi fast by consuming a simple meal on the day before. This meal should ideally be vegetarian and avoid grains like rice and lentils. They also take a cleansing bath and wear clean clothes before the fasting period begins.
Activities During Ekadashi
The day of Ekadashi is dedicated to spiritual practices. Devotees spend the day chanting mantras (sacred hymns), singing devotional songs (bhajans), and reading scriptures. Some may also visit temples to offer prayers to Lord Vishnu.
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
Following sunrise on the day after Ekadashi, devotees break their fast with a special meal called “prasad.” This prasad can consist of fruits, dry fruits, and other vegetarian dishes prepared without grains. The specific timing for breaking the fast varies depending on the specific Ekadashi being observed.
Significance of Ekadashi
Observing Ekadashi is believed to bring numerous benefits. Devotees believe that it purifies the body and mind, brings blessings from Lord Vishnu, and promotes good health and well-being. It is also seen as a way to strengthen one’s willpower and self-discipline.
Parivartini Ekadashi: A Day for Marital Harmony
Parivartini Ekadashi holds special significance for married women. Observing the fast on this day is believed to bring blessings for a happy and harmonious married life. Women also pray for the well-being of their husbands.
Indira Ekadashi: Seeking Material and Spiritual Blessings
Indira Ekadashi is associated with seeking both material and spiritual blessings. Devotees pray for wealth, prosperity, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
Ekadashi: A Celebration of Faith and Devotion
Whether observing Parivartini Ekadashi September offers a special opportunity for devotees to deepen their faith and devotion to Lord Vishnu. It is a time for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and seeking blessings for a happy and fulfilling life.