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The special and spiritual importance of Ekadashi fast has been mentioned in Sanatan Dharma and Hindu calendar, which is considered to be the most fruitful among all the fasts. Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month is mainly known as Padma Ekadashi or Parivartini Ekadashi. On this auspicious occasion, this time a very rare and auspicious coincidence i.e. the great coincidence of ‘Harivasar’ is taking place, which has increased the religious and astrological importance of this fast manifold. According to religious beliefs, on this day Lord Vishnu, the protector of the world, changes his side in the ocean of milk, that is why it is also called Parivartini Ekadashi. Those devotees who observe this fast with true devotion and rituals, get a place in Vaikuntha Dham directly after death. Let us know in detail about the auspicious time of this special festival, the method of worship and its supernatural significance.
In Hindu culture, Ekadashi fasting is not limited to just fasting, rather it is the best path for self-purification, mental peace and worship of God. On the day of Padma Ekadashi, there is a tradition of worshiping the Vaman incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to the Puranas, the sins of a person observing fast on this day are destroyed in many births and he gets virtuous results like performing Ashwamedha Yagya. As preparations for this auspicious date begin, a festive atmosphere is created in temples and devotees’ homes across the country. Following the rules of the fast, devotees start completing their preparations in the temples from early morning to mark their presence at the feet of Lord Vishnu.
Rare coincidence of Padma Ekadashi and Harivasar: What is its astrological and religious significance?
According to the Panchang, this year a special coincidence of ‘Harivasar’ is taking place on the holy festival of Padma Ekadashi. Harivasara is the time period that falls in the initial stages of Ekadashi Tithi, and is considered to be the most sacred and energetic for the worship of Lord Hari. Astrology experts say that the virtue of chanting, penance, charity and fasting done during Harivasar is many times more fruitful than on ordinary days. Worshiping Lord Vishnu during this period brings happiness, peace, prosperity and positive energy in the house. This Ekadashi is also considered very miraculous for attaining the peace and blessings of the ancestors, because the rituals performed on this day directly reach the feet of Lord Vishnu.
According to religious legends, Lord Vishnu had assumed the Vamana avatar to crush the ego of King Bali and on this Ekadashi day, he changed sides during his Yoga Nidra. This is the reason why it is also called Parivartini Ekadashi. By observing fast on this day, all kinds of troubles and obstacles in life go away. For those who are suffering from mental stress or financial crisis for a long time, this fast is considered no less than a boon. By the grace of Lord Vishnu, all the pending works of the devotees start getting completed and Goddess Lakshmi resides permanently in the house.
Auspicious time of Padma Ekadashi fast and right time of Paran
The completeness of any fast depends on its correct time and rituals. The beginning and end of Padma Ekadashi Tithi is decided according to the Panchang, and on the basis of that the devotees should resolve their worship and fasting. The best time for worship is Brahma Muhurta or morning time, when after taking bath etc. one wears clean clothes. After this, the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu is installed on the post and his Shodashopachar puja is performed. Keeping in mind the timing of Harivasar, devotees should ensure that they remain absorbed in the meditation of God during this holy period and stay away from any kind of negative thoughts.
Parana (breaking of the fast) should be done only after sunrise on Dwadashi Tithi and after the end of Harivasar. The fast is considered incomplete without ending Harivasar or without passing Dwadashi. On the morning of Paran, worshiping Lord Vishnu again and providing food to the Brahmins and giving donations as per one’s capacity is considered a very virtuous act. After this, the fast is concluded by consuming satvik food. Experts say that if all these rules are followed with complete devotion, then the seeker definitely gets the full results of the fast.
Complete worship method of Padma Ekadashi and important rules to keep in mind
On the day of Padma Ekadashi, waking up early in the morning and taking bath and wearing yellow clothes is considered very auspicious, because yellow color is very dear to Lord Vishnu. After this, spread a yellow cloth on a clean platform and install the idols of Lord Vishnu and Mata Lakshmi. During the puja, offer Roli, Akshat, yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, seasonal fruits, Panchamrit and sweets to the Lord. Tulsi leaves have special importance in this fast, hence Tulsi leaves must be included in the offering, because without it Lord Vishnu does not accept the offering. During the puja, one should continuously chant the mantra ‘Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya’ and reciting Vishnu Sahasranama provides mental peace.
Some strict rules have also been given regarding eating and drinking during the fast. Food is not consumed at all on this day, and those who are not able to observe Nirjala fast can keep the fast by consuming fruits or milk and water. Keep God in your mind throughout the day and stay away from any kind of lies, anger or harsh words. Organizing Jagran and bhajan-kirtan of God at night is considered to be the most important part of this fast. Those who stay awake the whole night and worship Lord Vishnu, all their sins are washed away and they receive special blessings from God.
Spiritual path to attain Vaikuntha Dham and ultimate goals of life
In Sanatan tradition, Vaikuntha Dham is said to be the supreme world of Lord Vishnu, upon reaching which man is completely freed from the cycle of birth and death and attains salvation. It is believed that the doors of Vaikuntha automatically open for the person who observes the fast of Padma Ekadashi regularly during his lifetime. In Kaliyuga, fasting on Ekadashi is considered to be the simplest and most effective means for atonement of sins and purification of the soul. This fast not only makes us religiously disciplined, but also awakens within us the spirit of service, compassion and dedication.