Parsva Ekadashi is one of the most sacred Ekadashi observed by Hindus. It falls on the eleventh day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada. This Ekadashi is deeply revered for its spiritual significance and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe. The day is marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of devotion.
Significance of Parsva Ekadashi
Parsva Ekadashi holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. It is believed to be an auspicious day that helps in cleansing the soul and purifying the mind. Observing this day with devotion is believed to remove sins accumulated over lifetimes. It also helps bring one closer to spiritual enlightenment. The importance of Parsva Ekadashi extends to promote virtues such as humility, compassion, and self-discipline.
Parsva Ekadashi Date 2024
In 2024, Parsva Ekadashi is observed on Saturday, September 14th.
Parsva Ekadashi Timings
Ekadashi Tithi will be observed full day on September 14, 2024
Next Day Parana (Fast-Breaking) Time falls between 06:05 AM to 10:12 AM on September 15, Sunday.
Story of Parsva Ekadashi
The story of Parsva Ekadashi is both enlightening and inspiring. It is said that long ago, there was a pious king named Mahijit who ruled with justice and kindness. Despite his virtues, he was plagued by recurring troubles. Seeking relief, he approached sage Dwaipayana, who advised him to observe Parsva Ekadashi with devotion.
Following the sage’s advice, the king fasted on this day and performed rigorous penance. Therefore, his troubles were eased, and he attained spiritual peace. This story exemplifies how Parsva Ekadashi can lead to divine blessings and personal transformation through sincere devotion and righteous living.
Parsva Ekadashi Puja Vidhi
The Parsva Ekadashi Puja Vidhi involves several key practices:
- Fasting: Devotees observe a fast. Some people consume only fruits, milk, and water, while others abstain from food and water.
- Morning Rituals: The day begins with a ritual bath during Brahm Muhurta to purify oneself. After this, devotees recite must perform prayers and hymns dedicated to Lord Shri Krishna and Gurus.
- Temple Visit: Attending the temple and participating in special prayers and ceremonies is highly encouraged. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and other offerings to Shri Krishna.
- Recitation of Mantras: Chanting 16 rounds of Shri Hare Krishna Mahamantra on Ekadashi is of utmost importance and helps in invoking blessings from the Supreme Godhead Shri Krishna and seeking his protection.
Hare Krishna Mahamantra:
HARE KRISHNA HARE KRISHNA, KRISHNA KRISHNA HARE HARE
HARE RAMA HARE RAMA, RAMA RAMA HARE HARE
- Evening Rituals: In the evening, devotees perform aarti (ritual light offering) and sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Vishnu.
Rituals of Parsva Ekadashi
Apart from the puja vidhi, several other rituals are performed on Parsva Ekadashi:
- Charity: Giving to those in need is an essential aspect of this day. Donations of food, clothing, and other essentials are made to the poor and needy.
- Meditation: Devotees engage in meditation and introspection to enhance their spiritual connection and self-awareness.
- Reading Scriptures: Perusing or standing by listening to consecrated texts like the Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Sahasranama is believed highly sacrosanct. These readings help in deepening one’s understanding and devotion.
- Observing Silence: Some devotees choose to observe silence for a portion of the day to focus on their spiritual practices and avoid distractions.
Night Vigil (Jagran)
One of the key rituals on Parsva Ekadashi is the night vigil, known as Jagran. Devotees stay awake throughout the night, engaging in prayers, singing hymns, and meditating on Lord Vishnu. The act of staying awake symbolizes constant alertness to spiritual duties and resisting worldly distractions.
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast is broken on Dwadashi the next day. Parana is an important aspect of observing Ekadashi and should be done at the right time. It is usually after sunrise on Dwadashi. Devotees break their fast with simple, sattvic food, such as fruits, milk, or light grains. Such type of food helps to keep the mind and body balanced after a day of fasting.
Importance of Donation on Parsva Ekadashi
Donation holds immense significance on Parsva Ekadashi. It is believed that acts of charity performed on this day yield multiplied spiritual rewards. By donating to the less fortunate, devotees not only earn divine blessings but also purify their own hearts and minds.
Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 17, Verse 20)
“दातव्यमिति यद्दानं दीयतेऽनुपकारिणे |
देशे काले च पात्रे च तद्दानं सात्त्विकं स्मृतम् ||”
“dātavyam iti yad dānaṁ dīyate ‘nupakāriṇe
deśe kāle ca pātre ca tad dānaṁ sāttvikaṁ smṛtam”
Meaning: Charity given out of duty, without expectation of return, at the proper time and place, and to a worthy person, is considered to be in the mode of goodness.
Charity on Parsva Ekadashi includes giving food, clothes, or money to those in need. This selfless act embodies the true spirit of the festival and aligns with the teachings of Lord Vishnu, who advocates for compassion and generosity.
- Food Donation (Annadanam): Donating food is considered the highest form of charity. Distributing meals to the poor or making donations in temples where community meals are served can uplift the receiver and the giver spiritually.
- Clothes and Essentials: Providing clothing, blankets, or other essentials to those in need fulfils both physical and emotional needs. This act of charity brings peace and contentment to the giver and spreads joy to the receiver.
- Offering Cows (Gau Seva Daan): In Hindu tradition, serving a cow is considered a highly sacred act. It is said to erase past sins and bring immense blessings, both material and spiritual.
- Temples Donations: Offering financial support or materials to temples and religious organizations enables the upkeep of sacred spaces. The continuation of religious practices benefits the entire community.
Conclusion
Parsva Ekadashi is not just another religious festival; it is a day filled with spiritual significance and transformative power. Observing the fast, performing the puja, and participating in charity on this sacred day leads to inner peace and divine blessings. The rituals, fasting, and donations made on Parsva Ekadashi are deeply intertwined with Hindu religion. It promotes a life of purity, selflessness, and devotion.
As devotees connect with Lord Vishnu through prayer, fasting, and charity. They start a journey towards spiritual growth and ultimate liberation. Celebrating Parsva Ekadashi with sincerity brings immense spiritual rewards, cleansing the soul and aligning one’s life with divine virtues.
