Ekadashi: A list of all Vrat dates in 2024 2023

Ekadashi

Ekadashi (meaning eleven in Sanskrit) is the 11th day after the full moon and the 11th day after the new moon, according to the Ancient Hindu Sanatan calendar. It is one of the most significant days in the Hindu lunar calendar and is observed by offering prayers and fasting. According to the Hindu calendar, there are two Ekadashis that fall each month: Shukla Paksha, (moon-brightening fortnight), and Krishna Paksha (dark lunar fortnight).

Ekadashi in Hindu Scriptures

Ekadashi is a significant day in the Hindu calendar. Vaikunta Ekadasi is regarded as one of the most significant Ekadasis in the Vaishnava tradition. Mukkoti Ekadasi and Swarga Vathil Ekadasi are other names for Vaikunta Ekadashi. In Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, Vishnu mandirs (temples) organise prayers, yagnas, and special dharmik katha (religious speeches) on this auspicious occasion.

According to Sanatan Hindu tradition, on the day of Ekadashi, our minds are at their most productive and can focus more clearly. Fasting assists you in achieving mental tranquillity on this spiritual day of Ekadashi. Fasting not only provides spiritual insights but also a healthy routine for your body. Devotees are encouraged to devote themselves completely to the Ekadashi fasts and in intense "sadhana" or devotion.

Putting spiritual benefits aside, these Ekadashi fasts allow the body to rest from irregular eating, helping you to flush out the toxic substances in your body. According to a proverb attributed to Bhagwan Krishna, if someone fasts on Ekadashi, all of their sins and bad actions are burned. As a result, this spiritual day is regarded as one of the best for atoning for all sins.

Why Fast on Ekadashi Tithi?

The Sanatan Hindu calendar, which is based on the cycle of the moon, says that every 40 to 48 days, the human body passes through a cycle known as a mandala. This cycle has a set of three days during which your body can avoid meals, though this may vary from person to person. Picking these ‌times can help you be productive and physically & mentally healthy.

From sundown on the day before Ekadashi till sunrise the next day, the fast is followed. A 48-hour spiritual fast is observed. The followers acquire both spiritual insights and mental clarity. Hindu scriptures record that Bhagwan Rama suggested that if one observes regular fasting on Ekadashi, all of his prior sins would be absolved.

Fasting on Ekadashi

You must maintain an anhydrous fast on Ekadashi dates, which means you must refrain from drinking water throughout the day. The following day, such spiritual fasts should be broken, preferably with a drink like milk. If you find it difficult to maintain an anhydrous fast (a material without water), you can opt to follow a fruit-only diet.

Forceful food refusal is useless because of how active you are every day. On this auspicious day of Ekadashi, many devotees refrain from shaving, trimming their nails, and cutting their hair in addition to eschewing grains, cereals, and meat.

Prohibited Hindu Rites on Ekadashi

• Hindu rituals like Shraddha Puja and cremation are strictly forbidden on the auspicious days of Ekadashi.
• It is advised against scheduling weddings and havan rituals on Ekadashi.
• During Ekadashi, worshippers are not permitted to eat grains or cereals according to Hindu scriptures.
• Only non-grain foods may be provided to visitors if you are compelled to perform any prayer or ritual on Ekadashi.