Mokshada Ekadashi is an important Hindu fasting day observed on the Ekadashi (11th day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Margashirsha (Agahan). Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this Ekadashi is believed to grant liberation (moksha) and bring peace to the souls of ancestors. It is also celebrated as Gita Jayanti, marking the day when Lord Krishna imparted the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
When is Mokshada Ekadashi?
This year, Mokshada Ekadashi will be observed on December 11. According to the Hindu calendar, the Ekadashi tithi will begin at 3:42 AM on December 11 and will end at 1:09 AM on December 12.
Significance of Mokshada Ekadashi
- Attainment of Moksha:
Observing a fast on this day and worshipping Lord Vishnu is believed to remove all sins and grant liberation (moksha). - Peace for Ancestors:
The merits of this fast bring peace to the souls of ancestors and help them attain liberation. - Fulfillment of Desires:
This fast is known to resolve life’s challenges and fulfill all desires. - Fortune and Prosperity:
Observing Mokshada Ekadashi enhances fortune, brings prosperity, and ensures peace in life.
How to Observe Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat
1. Preparation for the Vrat:
- On Dashami (the 10th day), eat only satvik food and maintain a pure mind.
- Sleep while remembering Lord Vishnu.
2. Rituals on Ekadashi:
- Take a bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes.
- Clean your puja space and bathe Lord Vishnu's idol with Ganga water.
- Offer yellow clothes, Tulsi leaves, sandalwood paste, incense, and naivedya to Lord Vishnu.
- Chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”.
- Recite the Bhagavad Gita and the Vishnu Sahasranama Stotram.
3. Charity and Food Restrictions:
- Avoid consuming grains or tamasic food on this day.
- Donate to the needy and feed Brahmins to bring peace to the souls of ancestors.
4. Breaking the Fast:
- On Dwadashi (the 12th day), bathe again, worship Lord Vishnu, and conclude the fast by feeding Brahmins.
Story of Mokshada Ekadashi
In ancient times, there was a pious king named Vajrasena who ruled the kingdom of Gokul. The king had a dream in which his ancestors appeared and revealed that they were suffering in hell due to their past sins. Distressed, the king consulted learned Brahmins and sages in his court.
The sages advised the king to visit the great sage Parvat, who could provide a solution. The king went to Sage Parvat and narrated his problem. The sage meditated and discovered that the king's ancestors were suffering in hell because of their sins. Sage Parvat suggested observing the Mokshada Ekadashi fast with full devotion and offering its merits to the ancestors.
The king followed the sage's advice and performed the fast with utmost dedication. After completing the fast, he transferred the merits to his ancestors, who were liberated from their suffering and attained heaven.
Since then, Mokshada Ekadashi has been regarded as a significant day for seeking liberation and bringing peace to one’s ancestors.
Lessons from Mokshada Ekadashi
This story teaches us that sincere and devoted religious practices can not only bring peace and happiness in our lives but also provide a path to liberation for our ancestors. The Mokshada Ekadashi fast is a way to earn the blessings of Lord Vishnu and ensure peace for our departed loved ones.
Benefits of Observing Mokshada Ekadashi
- Liberation from all sins.
- Peace and salvation for ancestors.
- Blessings of Lord Vishnu, leading to a prosperous and peaceful life.
- A path to heaven and ultimate liberation after death.
Key Points to Remember
- Mokshada Ekadashi can be observed by people of all ages.
- Perform this vrat with full devotion and follow the rituals diligently.
- Since it is also Gita Jayanti, reading the Bhagavad Gita on this day is highly auspicious.
Mokshada Ekadashi is not just a day of religious significance but also a powerful medium to purify the soul and infuse positivity into life.