Ekadashi, the day to worship Lord Vishnu, his powers, his abilities, and his divine nature, is observed on the 11th day of the waxing and waning phases of the moon. The day of Ekadashi is when Lord Vishnu’s powers are in full swing, and Vishnu devotees, especially those of the Vaishnava sect, observe fasting on the day. It is said that fasting on Ekadashi helps people cleanse all their sins, lead a life of spirituality, and helps them attain moksha.
In a year, there are usually 24 Ekadashi days, and can be 26 in leap years.
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Which are the most important Ekadashi days?
Although every Ekadashi is important for someone who looks up to and worships Lord Vishnu, there are certain Ekadashi days that are said to have more energy and power in them. For example, the Mokshada Ekadashi, observed around December is said to grant people liberation from birth and death. Plus, there are Vaikuntha Ekadashi and Nirjala Ekadashi that are said to be extremely powerful, and devotees observe fasting for the entire day, consuming no water or grains.
There is also Devshayani Ekadashi when it is said that Lord Vishnu falls into a deep slumber for 4 months, the ‘Chaturmas’.
And in October 2024, we have ‘Papankusha’ and ‘Rama’ Ekadashi which are also extremely powerful and holy.
Papankusha Ekadashi
Papankusha Ekadashi usually falls in mid-October, and in 2024 it will be observed on October 13. The name ‘Papankusha’ means – one that helps cleanse all sins and attain spiritual purification. It is said that people who fast and worship Lord Vishnu with a pure heart on this day are able to control their wandering, distracted mind, and lessen the effects of their sins.
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According to one of the most famous legends, a hunter named ‘Krodhana’ committed many sins in his life, but as his end was nearing, he grew fearful of the wrath he would have to face. In search for answers and ‘moksha’ he wandered the forests and a Rishi asked him to observe fasting and worship Lord Vishnu on ‘Papankusha’ Ekadashi. Krodhana followed the rishi’s advice, kept a fast, devoted his life to the service of Lord Vishnu, and soon found a place away from the sinners.
What to do on Papankusha Ekadashi
To observe Papankusha Ekadashi, start your day by waking up, taking a shower, and then immediately sit for your prayer. If you are keeping the Ekadashi vrat, chant Lord Vishnu’s name, recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, and offer flowers to Lord Vishnu, Maa Lakshmi, and the other Gods as well.
To fast on the Ekadashi, choose if you wish to keep a ‘Nirjala’ vrat, or a simple one. In Nirjala fast, one should not consume anything throughout the day, neither grains nor water, and in regular fasting, it is best to limit yourself to milk, nuts, and fruits, in limited quantities.
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Rama Ekadashi
Along with Papankusha Ekadashi, Rama Ekadashi is also in October. Rama Ekadashi will be observed on October 27, 2024, and in this Ekadashi fasting is observed to please Lord Vishnu and Maa Lakshmi, and ask them for cleansing of the sins, for prosperity, good health, and a successful life.
The story of Rama Ekadashi mentions the life of King Shobhan and his wife Chandrabhaga. Chandrabhaga was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu and used to fast on every Ekadashi. When she was married to King Shobhan, she asked him to do the same fast. Unfortunately, after keeping the fast, Shobhan died, but as he was fasting he received a place in Vaikuntha, and also a golden kingdom to rule.
How to keep the Rama Ekadashi vrat
Rama and Papankusha Ekadashi have similar rules and fasting processes. Devotees should make sure to wake up early, take a shower to cleanse themselves, add some Gangajal in the water for purification, and then sit down to pray, chant the name of Lord Vishnu, and maintain spiritual energy throughout the day.
And just like in Papankusha Ekadashi, devotees can choose between a Nirjala vrat or a normal fasting.
Dos and don’ts for Ekadashi in October
If you are observing a fast during the Ekadashi days, it is best to know some simple dos and don’ts for your day. For example, it is important to remember to not be sluggish throughout the day and engage yourself in devotional activities. Meditate on the name of Lord Vishnu, chant mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu, make sure to read the Vrat katha on the Ekadashi days, and maintain a calm energy through the day.
It is also important to remember that one should NOT break their fast midway if there isn’t any emergency. If you keep a Nirjala vrat, don’t drink water or consume grains throughout the day, and only break your fast after the Parana time. Also, don’t ‘indulge’ yourself in materialistic things, don’t engage in sexual activities, and don’t forget to take ‘Ram naam’ throughout the day.
