Aja Ekadashi

Ekadashi is the eleventh tithi (lunar day) in both the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) and Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of the moon. There are 24 Ekadashis in a year, each with its own unique significance and spiritual benefits.

The word 'Ekadashi' is derived from Sanskrit, where 'Eka' means one and 'Dasha' means ten, signifying the eleventh day. This day is considered highly auspicious for fasting, meditation, and spiritual practices in Hinduism.

Observing Ekadashi vrat (fast) is believed to purify the body and mind, remove negative karma, and bring one closer to the divine. It is said that fasting on Ekadashi helps in controlling the senses and developing self-discipline.

Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious days for spiritual practices. It is believed that on this day, the mind is naturally inclined towards spiritual activities, making it easier to focus on prayer, meditation, and devotion.

According to Hindu scriptures, observing Ekadashi vrat helps in cleansing the body of toxins and the mind of negative thoughts. It is said to promote physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.

Each Ekadashi is associated with a specific deity and has unique benefits. Fasting on Ekadashi is believed to bring blessings, remove obstacles, and help in achieving moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death.

• Begin the fast from sunrise on Ekadashi day and break it on the next day (Dwadashi) after sunrise.
• Avoid consuming grains, beans, and certain vegetables like onions and garlic on Ekadashi.
• Consume only fruits, milk, nuts, and root vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes during the fast.
• Spend the day in prayer, meditation, reading scriptures, and chanting mantras.
• Visit temples and perform puja to Lord Vishnu, who is particularly worshipped on Ekadashi.
• Maintain celibacy and avoid negative thoughts, anger, and arguments on this day.
• Donate food, clothes, or money to the needy as an act of charity.
• Stay awake during the night of Ekadashi (Jagran) and engage in spiritual activities.
• Break the fast (Parana) on Dwadashi day after sunrise, preferably during the prescribed time window.
• Maintain a positive and peaceful mindset throughout the day.

• Physical detoxification: Fasting helps in cleansing the digestive system and removing toxins from the body.
• Mental clarity: The practice of fasting and meditation improves focus and mental clarity.
• Spiritual growth: Regular observance of Ekadashi helps in developing self-discipline and spiritual awareness.
• Karma purification: It is believed that observing Ekadashi helps in reducing negative karma and accumulating positive karma.
• Health benefits: Fasting on Ekadashi can help in regulating metabolism and improving overall health.
• Divine blessings: Devotees believe that observing Ekadashi brings blessings from Lord Vishnu.
• Inner peace: The practice of fasting and prayer helps in achieving inner peace and tranquility.
• Moksha: Regular observance of Ekadashi is believed to help in achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death.