Ekadashi Tithi Begins: at Monday, October 28, 2024
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: at 05:23 AM on Oct 27, 2024
Parana Time –On 29th Oct, 06:11 AM to 08:33 AM
Note: “Parana” is the breaking of the fast. Ekadashi Parana is observed on the next day of Ekadashi fast after sunrise within Dwadashi Tithi.
Ram Ekadashi is a propitious occasion dedicated to venerating Lord Vishnu, wherein devotees fervently perform Vishnu Puja to seek the divine blessings of the Lord. This sacred day occurs on the eleventh day of Krishna Paksha in the Chaitra month, as per the Hindu lunar calendar, and is esteemed for its profound significance in the worship of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the form of Lord Vishnu known as Kesahav was adored by the form of Goddess Lakshmi in the guise of Rama. Ram Ekadashi holds the distinction of being the final Ekadashi of Chaturmas, a period spanning four months. He is regarded as an opportune time for devotees to offer their supplications to the Almighty, with the potential for their wishes to be fulfilled. Let us delve into the intricate narrative and significance surrounding the observance of Ram Ekadashi.
According to the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana, observing a fast on this auspicious day is believed to absolve one of their past sins or wrongdoings. A devout worshipper with a pure heart may attain salvation through the grace of Lord Vishnu. Additionally, reciting Lord Vishnu’s mantras or ancient tales on this day is believed to bring about tremendous progress in one’s life. Some devotees also choose to organize Vishnu Puja or Lakshmi Puja to appease the Lord. Through these rituals, individuals seek to cleanse themselves of their sins and find pathways to success in life.
Story of Rama Ekadashi Vrat:
According to ancient Hindu scriptures, there once lived a king named Muchukunda, who ruled over a prosperous kingdom and counted Indra, Varuna, and Kubera among his close companions. King Muchukunda was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. He had a daughter named Chandrabhaga, who had been observing the Rama Ekadasi Vrat since her childhood. Consequently, she urged her husband, Prince Shoban, the son of King Chandrasena, to also observe the Vrat.
Prince Shoban agreed to fulfill his wife’s request but, unable to control his hunger, he tragically succumbed to death before dawn. A Brahmin named Soma Sharma happened to pass through Muchukunda’s Kingdom and encountered the prince. Upon learning of the situation, Prince Shoban sought help from the Brahmin. Soma Sharma later informed Chandrabhaga of the incident and elucidated the circumstances.
He explained that if someone were to relinquish all their virtues for a lifetime due to observing the Rama Ekadasi Vrat, Prince Shoban, and his kingdom would return to the mortal realm. Chandrabhaga, determined to bring her husband back, willingly sacrificed all her virtues. As a result, the couple was reunited, restoring happiness to their lives.
Why is Rama Ekadashi Vrat Important?
Fasting holds immense significance on the occasion of Rama Ekadashi. This observance commences on the day of Dashami, the day preceding Ekadashi. On this day, devotees abstain from consuming a variety of foods and partake only in ‘Saatvik‘ meals once, before dusk. The fasting rituals (Parana) are concluded on the following day of Dwadashi Tithi.
Devotees dedicate this day to the worship of Lord Vishnu through Vishnu Puja. Offerings of flowers, fruits, incense sticks, and dhoop are made to the idol of Lord Vishnu. Some devotees also place Bhog near the idol. Subsequently, the puja is concluded with the performance of aarti, followed by the distribution of prasad among fellow devotees.
In addition to prayers to Lord Vishnu, devotees also offer supplications to Devi Lakshmi, seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness. Furthermore, they stay awake until late at night, engaging in the singing of devotional songs or the reading of sacred texts such as the ‘Bhagavad Gita‘ or Vishnu Sahastranama Stotram.
Benefits of Rama Ekadasi Vrat
Devotees adhering to strict fasting on the auspicious day of Rama Ekadashi may experience the following benefits:
1. Relief from past-life sins or inadvertent wrongdoings.
2. Attainment of salvation for oneself and ancestors.
3. Equivalent merit to that of more than 100 Rajasuya Yagnas or 1000 Ashwamedha Yagnas (Fire Rituals aimed at acquiring power and strength), leading to positive outcomes in life.
4. Restoration of peace and happiness within the family.
5. Protection from malevolent forces and unseen adversaries by the grace of Lord Vishnu.