JATHAKAM CHARTEkadashi: Significance, Rules, and Fasting Rituals
Ekadashi is one of the most sacred and ancient fasts in Hinduism. The word "Ekadashi," derived from Sanskrit, means eleventh. It falls on the 11th day of the Hindu lunar calendar and occurs twice every month:
- Krishna Paksha Ekadashi: observed after the full moon.
- Shukla Paksha Ekadashi: observed after the new moon.
According to the Padma Purana, Lord Shiva explained the importance of Ekadashi to Narada. It is believed that the ancestors of those who observe Ekadashi attain heaven, and devotees receive blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Ekadashi Rules and Fasting Guidelines
The Ekadashi fast is considered strict and sacred. Devotees begin fasting from sunset on Dashami Tithi (the day before Ekadashi) until sunrise on Dwadashi (the day after).
Rules for Dashami (Day Before Ekadashi)
- Wake up early and take a holy bath.
- Eat food without salt.
- Avoid meat, onion, garlic, lentils, and honey.
- Practice celibacy and avoid worldly pleasures.
Rules for Ekadashi Day
- Do not use a stick for brushing teeth; rinse with plain water instead.
- Avoid plucking leaves from trees.
- Visit a temple and recite or listen to the Bhagavad Gita.
- Chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” sincerely.
- Donate food, clothes, or money to the needy.
- Avoid eating rice in any form.
- Refrain from sweeping the house to prevent harming small creatures.
- Maintain a pure and positive mindset.
Rules for Dwadashi (Day After Ekadashi)
- Wake up early and worship Lord Vishnu.
- Break the fast with simple, Satvik food.
- Offer sweets and Dakshina to Brahmins.
- Ensure to break the fast before Trayodashi Tithi begins.
Allowed Food During Ekadashi Vrat
On Ekadashi, devotees consume light and Satvik food items such as:
- Fresh fruits and dry fruits
- Sugar and jaggery
- Kuttu (buckwheat) and sago (sabudana)
- Potato and sweet potato
- Milk and coconut
- Rock salt, black pepper, and ginger
Some devotees also observe Nirjala Ekadashi, in which one fasts completely without food or water, making it the most difficult Ekadashi fast.
Importance of Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Every Ekadashi is associated with a unique Vrat Katha (fasting story). Scriptures mention that the Ekadashi fast is considered incomplete without listening to or reading the associated Katha. It enhances the spiritual benefits of fasting.
On AstroSage and other Vedic resources, you can learn about Ekadashi dates, fasting rules, puja rituals, and mythological stories for each Ekadashi in the year.