Ekadashi Vrat Dates and Significance
Ekadashi is an important Hindu observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where devotees fast from sunrise to the next day, after the sunrise. It falls on the 11th day of the lunar fortnight according to the Hindu calendar. Observing Ekadashi Vrat is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul, and is considered auspicious for spiritual growth.

Upcoming Ekadashi Vrat Dates and Timings
Here are the dates and timings of the upcoming Ekadashi Vrat:

  1. Kamika Ekadashi
  2. Date: Sunday, 11th July 2021

  3. Parana Time: 06:02 AM to 08:35 AM on 12th July 2021

  4. Pavitra Ekadashi

  5. Date: Tuesday, 27th July 2021

  6. Parana Time: 06:08 AM to 08:39 AM on 28th July 2021

  7. Aja Ekadashi

  8. Date: Wednesday, 11th August 2021

  9. Parana Time: 05:57 AM to 08:33 AM on 12th August 2021

  10. Parsva Ekadashi

  11. Date: Thursday, 26th August 2021
  12. Parana Time: 06:04 AM to 08:27 AM on 27th August 2021

Significance of Ekadashi Vrat
Ekadashi is considered highly auspicious in Hinduism. The fast is observed to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and to attain spiritual growth. It is believed that observing Ekadashi Vrat helps in cleansing one’s mind, body, and soul. Devotees also believe that fasting on Ekadashi fulfills their wishes, removes sins, and helps in achieving salvation.

Benefits of Observing Ekadashi Vrat
1. Spiritual Growth: Observing Ekadashi Vrat is believed to enhance spiritual growth and bring one closer to the divine.

  1. Physical Detoxification: Fasting on Ekadashi is said to detoxify the body and improve overall health.

  2. Mind Purification: The austerity of fasting is believed to purify the mind and help in controlling desires.

  3. Wish Fulfillment: Devotees believe that fasting on Ekadashi helps in fulfilling their wishes and desires.

  4. Obtaining Blessings: Seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu by observing Ekadashi Vrat is considered auspicious for overall well-being.

How to Observe Ekadashi Vrat
1. Sankalp: One must take a firm resolve or Sankalp to observe the fast from the evening of Dashami (10th day) till the morning of Dwadashi (12th day).

  1. Fasting: Devotees abstain from consuming grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some may also opt for a complete waterless fast.

  2. Puja: Devotees offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and read or listen to the stories of Ekadashi to seek his blessings.

  3. Charity: Giving alms, donating food, or offering meals to the needy is considered virtuous on Ekadashi.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Ekadashi Vrat:

  1. Can anyone observe Ekadashi Vrat?

  2. Yes, anyone who wishes to seek spiritual growth and the blessings of Lord Vishnu can observe Ekadashi Vrat.

  3. Are there any exceptions to fasting on Ekadashi?

  4. Pregnant women, individuals with health conditions, and children are exempt from fasting but can still participate in prayers and rituals.

  5. What is the significance of breaking the fast at the designated time?

  6. Breaking the fast at the designated time known as Parana is believed to be auspicious and in accordance with the traditions.

  7. Can one consume fruits and milk during Ekadashi fasting?

  8. Yes, fruits and milk are usually allowed during Ekadashi fasting, while grains, beans, and certain vegetables are avoided.

  9. Is it necessary to stay awake the whole night during Ekadashi?

  10. It is not mandatory to stay awake the whole night, but engaging in prayers and meditation during this time is considered beneficial.

  11. Can Ekadashi be observed without a strict fast?

  12. Yes, one can observe Ekadashi by consuming only fruits and milk if unable to keep a strict fast.

  13. What is the importance of Ekadashi in the Hindu calendar?

  14. Ekadashi is believed to be a powerful day for spiritual progress and seeking blessings from Lord Vishnu.

  15. Is Ekadashi observed differently in different regions of India?

  16. While the essence of Ekadashi remains the same, specific rituals and traditions may vary across different regions of India.

  17. Are there any specific prayers or mantras to be recited during Ekadashi?

  18. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Shodasha Nama, or the Vishnu Purana is considered auspicious during Ekadashi.

  19. Can Ekadashi Vrat be broken in the evening if one cannot continue till the next morning?

    • Ideally, the fast should be broken only at the designated Parana time on the next day for the spiritual benefits associated with Ekadashi.

Observing Ekadashi Vrat is a significant practice in Hindu culture that carries immense spiritual importance. Devotees believe that by observing this fast with faith and dedication, one can attain blessings, peace, and spiritual elevation in life.