Google trend - Ekadashi March 2024

Ekadashi is a significant day in the Hindu calendar that falls on the 11th day of the lunar fortnight. It is observed twice a month, once during the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) and once during the waning phase (Krishna Paksha). Ekadashi holds great spiritual significance for Hindus as it is believed to be a day when one can attain spiritual purification and progress towards self-realization.

In March 2024, Ekadashi falls on the 2nd and 17th of the month. The Ekadashi that falls on the 2nd of March is known as Amalaki Ekadashi. It is dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu and is observed by fasting and performing rituals to seek the blessings of the deity. The significance of Amalaki Ekadashi lies in the story of a sage named Chyavana who regained his youth and vitality by observing this fast and worshipping Lord Vishnu with devotion.

On this day, devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. They abstain from consuming grains, lentils, and certain vegetables during the fast. Instead, they eat fruits, nuts, and milk to maintain their energy levels throughout the day. The fast is broken the next day after sunrise with a simple meal of grains and vegetables.

The Ekadashi that falls on the 17th of March is known as Papmochani Ekadashi. It is believed that observing this fast can help one get rid of sins and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The significance of Papmochani Ekadashi lies in the story of a king named Mandhata who was absolved of his sins by observing this fast with sincerity and devotion.

On Papmochani Ekadashi, devotees follow a similar routine of waking up early, taking a bath, and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. They observe a strict fast and avoid consuming any form of food or water throughout the day. The fast is broken the next day after sunrise with a simple meal of fruits and milk.

Apart from fasting and praying, devotees also engage in charitable activities on Ekadashi to earn merit and seek the blessings of the deity. They donate food, clothes, and money to the needy and perform acts of kindness to purify their souls and seek forgiveness for their sins.

In conclusion, Ekadashi in March 2024 holds great spiritual significance for Hindus as it provides an opportunity to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu, purify the soul, and progress towards self-realization. By observing the fast with sincerity and devotion, devotees can attain spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.