According to hindu mythology, many auspicious days, festivals and fasts are marked during this time. Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.The month of Margashirsha holds great significance for devotees of Vishnu and Krishna. Read through the blog, and discover more about this celebration, including the date, times, customs, and significance.
What is Ekadashi?
According to Drik Panchang, Ekadashi of Margashirsha month falls on December 8. The Ekadashi date starts on December 8 at 5:06 am and ends on December 9 at 6:31 am.
Ekadashi is considered to be one of the main and significant occasions in Hinduism. This auspicious day is dedicated to worship to Lord Vishnu. Devotees do Nirjala Fast on Ekadashi.
There are a total of 24 Ekadashi in a year. Ekadashi falls twice a month during Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha. Let’s dive into the rituals part into the next heading.
Rituals:
- Wake up early in the morning and take a shower.
- Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, and other prayers dedicated to the deity are believed to invoke divine blessings.
- Offering prasad, especially food, clothing or other essentials, to the less fortunate is considered auspicious on this day.
- Devotees visit temples to offer special prayers and seek the Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
- The fast traditionally ends on the Dwadashi day after sunrise. Consuming a simple and sattvic meal is recommended.
Mantra:
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya (Sanskrit: ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय) is a widely recited Hindu mantra that is fundamental to the hindu tradition. Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya, often called the Dwadasakshari or “twelve-syllable” mantra, is a devotional hymn to Lord Vishnu as Krishna.
Significance:
According to mythology, Utapanna Ekadashi commemorates the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his cosmic sleep (Yoga Nidra). Devotees believe that keeping a fast on this day and participating in prayers can absolve sins, eliminate negative karma, and bring peace and prosperity into their lives. It is considered an auspicious time to seek divine blessings and connect with the spiritual realm.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ekadashi holds profound significance in the Hindu lunar calendar. Devotees abstain from certain foods, engage in meditation, and visit temples, the rituals aim to purify the mind, body, and soul. Ekadashi transcends the physical, seeking forgiveness, and fostering a connection with the divine. The essence of Ekadashi lies not only in its rituals but in the deep spiritual introspection and renewal it offers to those who observe this sacred day.
Frequently asked question:
- What foods should be avoided during Ekadasi?
Ans: One should not consume tamasic things like meat, liquor, onion, garlic.
- Which God is celebrated on Ekadashi 2023?
Ans: Lord Vishnu
- Why is Ekadashi fast important?
Ans: Vishnu narrated the importance of the Ekadashi fast to Yudhishthira. He said genuinely faithful people observe this day to purify the soul and attain Moksha. Since the primary purpose of human life is to attain salvation, this fast is said to be particularly helpful for all. Therefore, it observers of this pious Hindu ritual achieve peace of mind and prosperity.
