Ekadashi Tithi Begins: at 01:01 AM on Nov 26, 2024
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: at 03:47 AM on Nov 27, 2024
Parana Time –On 27th Nov, 01:20 PM to 03:40 PM
Note: “Parana” is the breaking of the fast. Ekadashi Parana is observed on the next day of Ekadashi fast after sunrise within Dwadashi Tithi.
Utpanna Ekadashi Vrat, also known as Utpatti Ekadashi, is observed on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Margashirsh. It holds significance as the first Ekadashi following Kartik Purnima, with the subsequent Ekadashi being Devutthana Ekadashi.
The celebration of Utpanna Ekadashi holds profound significance as devotees pay homage to Maa Ekadashi. It is believed that worshiping Goddess Ekadashi on this auspicious day can absolve one of past sins.
Additionally, some devotees hold faith that observing Utpanna Ekadashi may lead to moksha or salvation after death. Following one’s passing, it is believed that they may attain the darshan of Lord Vishnu in ‘Vaikuntha’. The reverence for Utpanna Ekadashi is said to surpass even the act of donating 1000 cows.
Furthermore, those observing a fast on Utpanna Ekadashi seek to appease the trinity of Gods – Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahesh. Alongside, they recite special Vishnu Mantras while paying homage to Goddess Ekadashi during Vishnu Puja.
Utpanna Ekadashi Vrat Katha:
During Ekadashi, we observe fasting rituals to honor Goddess Ekadashi, one of the manifestations of Lord Vishnu’s divine energy.
According to ancient lore, when the Devas struggled against the demon Murasura, they found it impossible to defeat him. Seeking assistance, they implored Lord Vishnu for aid in vanquishing Murasura. After years of battle, Lord Vishnu retired to rest in a cave. Murasura, however, pursued him, intending to overpower him in his sleep.
It was during this moment of peril that Goddess Ekadashi emerged from Lord Vishnu’s being. She manifested to protect him from the demon’s onslaught, becoming one of the guardian powers associated with Lord Vishnu. Another such power is Goddess Vaishnavi, who is also part of the Sapta Matrika.
Upon Lord Vishnu’s inquiry, Ekadashi expressed her desires and was granted three boons:
1. Goddess Ekadashi would always hold precedence and be beloved by Lord Vishnu.
2. She would possess the highest significance among all Tithis (days), capable of absolving individuals of their past sins.
3. She would bestow health, wealth, and prosperity upon those who observe fasting on this auspicious day.
Pleased with her requests, Lord Vishnu bestowed upon Ekadashi all three boons, emphasizing the importance of worshipping Goddess Ekadashi on this sacred day.
Steps for Conducting Utpanna Ekadashi Puja Rituals:
1. Begin your day with an early morning bath and engage in meditation on Lord Vishnu. As you do so, sanctify your surroundings by sprinkling Gangajal throughout your home.
2. Present offerings of Tulsi Manjaris to Lord Vishnu as a token of reverence.
3. Light incense, lamps/Diyas, offer Naivedya (food offering), Roli, and Akshat in front of the idol of Lord Vishnu. While performing these rituals, chant the sacred ‘OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ Mantra with unwavering devotion and faith.
4. Embark on the fast of Utpanna Ekadashi and immerse yourself in listening to the ancient tale of Maa Ekadashi. Use this opportunity to seek forgiveness for any transgressions.
5. Conclude the worship with the performance of Aarti and distribute Prasad, the blessed food offering, among fellow devotees.
6. Before concluding the fast, make charitable donations and ensure to serve food to Brahmins as a gesture of goodwill and piety.
Rituals for Observing Fast on Utpanna Ekadashi
On Utpanna Ekadashi, individuals commence their fast at dawn and continue it until sunrise on Dwadashi. During this period, they abstain from consuming rice, pulses, and all forms of grains. Devotees adhere strictly to fasting rules and only break their fast on the subsequent day, known as Dwadashi Tithi, as it holds significance in the ritual.
Moreover, it is customary for individuals to avoid breaking their fast during Hari Vasara. Once this period ends, they are permitted to conclude their day-long fast. Typically, devotees opt to break their fast at sunrise.
Food Items Permitted During the Fast
Those observing the fast may consume fruits such as bananas, apples, oranges, and papaya, along with vegetables like cucumber, radish, pumpkin, lemon, and coconut. As for spices, black pepper is the only permissible option during Ekadashi fasting.
The Abstinence from Rice during Ekadashi Vrat
The avoidance of rice during Ekadashi fasting stems from the gravitational influence of the moon, which causes fluctuating tides in rivers, leading to high waves. This lunar position during Ekadashi Tithi is deemed unfavorable for the human digestive system, prompting many to abstain from rice consumption during this period.