The goal of the Ekadashi Vrat is to purify your soul and get ready for Moksha (salvation). By engaging in this ritualistic practice, people can overcome negative planetary influences and find happiness. Did this pique your interest? Learn more about this holy occasion ahead!
As per the Hindu calendar, Ekadashi is one of the most important rituals. The word 'Ekadashi', derived from Sanskrit, means 'eleven'. Ekadashi occurs on the 11th Tithi (or date) of every fortnight in the Hindu calendar. Every month there are two Ekadashi Tithis in both Shukla Paksha (waxing Moon period) and Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon).
It is said that observing the Ekadashi fast, also known as the Ekadashi Vrat, allows one to atone for their sins and find salvation. There are some strict rules for those who observe this fast, which are considered necessary to follow. It is believed that anyone who observes this fast with devotion and abides by all the guidelines can undoubtedly reap many rewards from it.
In this article about the Ekadashi Muhurat in 2023, we will also discuss the significance and benefits of the Ekadashi Vrat(or fasting) and learn about the things to remember on this day.
So let’s continue exploring more about this special occasion that is Ekadashi.
Wondered Why Ekadashi Fast is So Significant?
There are 24 Ekadashi in total in the Hindu calendar, and they are extremely significant for the followers of Hinduism. Observing this fast is a way for Hindu devotees to show devotion, especially to the God Vishnu; it is observed on the eleventh day of each month in the Hindu calendar. According to religious beliefs, on the day of Ekadashi Tithi, Lord Vishnu is worshiped. It is believed that the Ekadashi date is very dear to Lord Vishnu. This is why the Ekadashi Vratis special and very effective in all the fasts. According to mythological belief, a person who observes Ekadashi fast does not face the fear of death because the glory of this fast was told by Shri Krishna himself to Yudhishthira in the Mahabharata period.
Due to the effect of the Ekadashi fast, the person can get salvation. Additionally, the chances of getting all of the work completed increase, and one can get rid of poverty. If you are troubled by the fear of premature death, then this fast will cure you of this fear to a great extent. Wealth, fame, and blessings of ancestors are also received by this fast.
The Benefits of The Ekadashi Fast!
In Hinduism, the spiritual significance of the Ekadashi Vrat is numerous. Devotees look forward to this day to observe Ekadashi Vrat and Puja and seek divine blessings. Here are some of the advantages of the auspicious Ekadashi Vrat.
Fasting is a way for Hindus to make their bodies the focus of rituals that are necessary and integral to worshiping God. Ekadashi is one such fast. Numerous rituals are carried out during the worship of God. Among its components is fasting.
Since ancient times, people have been practicing this art of worshiping and appeasing the deity, which is still common in today's society. You can travel spiritually and cleanse your conscious soul by fasting.
This phenomenon of purifying one's mind, body, and soul is not limited to the supernatural world of the soul but also has scientific applications in metabolism and other biological operations.
In addition to restricting one's entire diet, fasting calls for following basic hygiene procedures. A person who is fasting is allowed to consume fruits and milk. Numerous short stories related to fasting can be found in Hinduism's sacred and holy texts.
Fasting has numerous scientific parameters. Researchers have discovered the biological effects of fasting on the human body. Many people are unaware of it, but their faith is what motivates them to fast.
On the day of Ekadashi, fasting is equivalent to making a pilgrimage to any holy site.
The Ekadashi fasting benefits are perfect for you if you want to cleanse your body, mind, and soul and eliminate all your sins.
The Ekadashi fast not only purifies the soul but also detoxifies the body and improves metabolism. The many advantages of the Ekadashi fast include ultimate salvation, wealth, prosperity, and heightened spirituality.
Ekadashi 2023 Muhurat
Now let's look at the Ekadashi dates and times as per the Indian Standard Time.
Shravan Putrada Ekadashi - 27th August 2023, Sunday
Starts - 12:08 PM, 27th August 2023
Ends - 09:32 PM, 27th August 2023
Aja Ekadashi - 10 September 2023, Sunday
Starts - 07:17 PM, 9th September 2023
Ends - 09:28 PM, 10th September 2023
Parivartini Ekadashi - 25th September 2023, Monday, And Vaishnav Parivartini Ekadashi: 26th September 2023, Tuesday
Starts - 07:55 AM, 25th September 2023
Ends - 05:00 AM, 26th September 2023
Indra Ekadashi - 10th October 2023, Tuesday
Starts - 12:36 PM, 9th October 2023
Ends - 03:08 PM, 10th October 2023
Papankusha Ekadashi - 25th October 2023, Wednesday
Starts - 03:14 PM, 24th October 2023
Ends - 12:32 PM, 25th October 2023
Rama Ekadashi - 9th November 2023, Thursday
Starts - 08:23 AM, 8th November 2023
Ends - 10:41 AM, 9th November 2023
Devutthani Ekadashi (Devaprabodhini, Devotthan) - 23rd November 2023, Thursday
Starts - 11:03 PM, 22nd November 2023
Ends - 09:01 PM, 23rd November 2023
Utpanna Ekadashi - 8th December 2023, Friday, And Vaishnav Utpanna Ekadashi - 9th December 2023, Saturday
Starts - 05:06 AM, 8th December 2023
Ends - 06:31 AM, 9th December 2023
Mokshada Ekadashi: 22nd December 2023, Friday, And Vaishnav Mokshada Ekadashi, 23rd December, Saturday
Starts - 08:16 AM, 22nd December 2023
Ends - 07:11 AM, 23rd December 2023
When To Observe Ekadashi Vrat?
Hindu scriptures describe that the Ekadashi fast lasts about 48 hours as the fasting starts on the eve of Ekadashi and lasts till the sun rises on the next day of Ekadashi. You can, however, speak with an expert on Astroyogi to receive individualized advice on when to observe an Ekadashi Vrat.
Now that you're aware of the Muhurats for Ekadashi in 2023, let's dive deeper to learn more about Ekadashi's Vrat ritual and other important details.
The Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi (or Worship Method)?
The rule of observing the Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhiis very strict and should be followed with utmost dedication to benefit from it. A person of all ages and genders can keep this fast voluntarily. People observing Ekadashi fast should follow some important rules from the day of Dashami (one day before Ekadashi). Below are some of the guidelines to follow.
From the day of Dashami, a person observing fast should not consume food items like meat-fish, onions, pulses (lentils), and honey. One should observe celibacy completely and stay away from indulgence and luxury.
Brushing teeth with a wooden brush should be avoided on Ekadashi morning. You can clean your mouth with berries, lemon, or mango leaves on this day, and you can rinse with plain water.
After taking a bath, you can go to the temple and recite the holy Gita.
Plucking leaves from trees is also considered inauspicious on this day, so you can use only fallen leaves.
During this fast, remember and pray to Lord Vishnu. Chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" with a sincere heart. Donating to the needy is also important on this day, and one must donate as much as possible.
The next day of Ekadashi is known as Dwadashi. Dwadashi is a normal day like Dashami and other days. On this day, worship Lord Vishnu by taking an early morning bath and breaking the fast by eating regular food.
On this day, offer sweets, Dakshina, and other items to Brahmins (or priests). Keep in mind that the devotees should break the fast before the arrival of Trayodashi.
On this day, one should try to follow the Ekadashi fast rule as precisely as possible.
Those who observe the fast can choose to take the Vrat without water (also known as Nirjala Vrat), with only water, with only fruits and nuts, or other Vrat food items, depending on their will and their bodies' abilities. Regardless of whether the fast is partial or complete, a decision should be made before beginning.
What Should You Avoid Doing on Ekadashi?
You shouldn't pluck leaves from the tree.
Avoid sweeping the house because it poses a risk of killing ants or other small living creatures, and killing animals on this day is considered a sin.
Rice should not be consumed on the day of Ekadashi.
The food offered by anyone should not be consumed.
There should be no negative thoughts of any kind.
Things To Keep in Mind During Ekadashi
Give up anger: Talk to everyone you meet with love and sweetness. On the day of the Ekadashi fast, you shouldn't get angry with anyone. Control your anger if you find yourself getting upset at someone for no apparent reason.
Avoid consuming these food items: On the day of Ekadashi fasting, avoid eating meat, fish, garlic, and onions, among other things. Do not include these items in your food because their consumption will ruin your fast.
Visit a temple: Once you've taken a bath, you should visit the temple and recite the Gita there. In addition to this, you can, if you wish, listen to the priest reciting the Gita.
Celibacy should be followed: You must follow Brahmacharya strictly if you want your fast to be successful. Indulgence and luxury must be completely avoided on this day.
You shouldn't cut your hair: On this day, you should not cut or trim your hair. If your hair is growing too long, you should get it cut before this date.
Mantras That You Can Chant On Ekadashi
During Ekadashi Puja, Lord Vishnu's mantra is chanted: “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.”
Along with this, it is also advised to chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra 108 times. The mantra is: “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare” OR “Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare.”
During morning and evening worship, devotees can also visit a temple to witness Goddess Ekadashi’s Aarti.