
Ekadashi full details, list of 24 Ekadashi Types, 24 Ekadashi names: In the Hindu faith, Ekadashi is revered as a profoundly sacred day, marked by devotion and fasting.
Occurring twice a month, during the Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha phases, this auspicious occasion is observed with great fervor.
Ekadashi
Throughout the year, there are 24 Ekadashi observances, each holding significant spiritual importance. Devotees of Vaishnavism and ISKCON worldwide come together to fast and joyfully celebrate this special day, showcasing their unwavering dedication to their faith.
What is ekadashi and its importance?
This auspicious occasion represents the harmony of eleven senses - five sensory organs, five organs of action, and the mind.
It's considered an ideal day for observing a fast (Vrat), which involves controlling one's senses and mind, and consuming a simple diet of fruits, milk, and select vegetables, while avoiding grains, beans, and rice.
The lunar cycle is believed to influence an individual's mental frequency on Ekadashi days, making it an opportune time to channel mental energy positively and abstain from negative actions.
By observing Vrat, devotees aim to purify their senses and attain a higher state of consciousness.
Throughout the year, 24 Ekadashi days are celebrated, each holding unique significance and associations with various incarnations of Lord Vishnu.
Akhanda vishnu karyam mantra | अखंड विष्णु कार्यम् | Meaning & Benefits
Types of ekadashi fasting
According to ancient Vedic wisdom, the human body undergoes a natural renewal process every 30th and 48th day, making it an ideal time for fasting and rejuvenation.
Consuming excessive food during this period can lead to discomfort and negativity in the body. To align with the lunar cycle's waning and waxing phases, the Vedas recommend observing a full or partial fast on Ekadashi days.
There are three primary methods of observing Ekadashi:
1. Nirjala: Abstaining from all food and drink for the entire day.
2. Sajala: Sustaining the body with water, fruit juices, and other liquid nutrients.
3. Farali: Nourishing the body with milk and fruits only.
Most powerful Vishnu mantra | विष्णु मंत्र
Ekadashi benefits
By observing fast, individuals can experience numerous physical and mental benefits, including:
- Purification of the mind and body
- Detoxification and refreshment of bodily fluids
- Prevention of tumor formation and carcinogenic diseases
- Regulation of sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetic diseases
- Conversion of fat globules into energy, cleansing unwanted fat and cholesterol
- Enhanced energy and freshness after fasting"
Ekadashi Full list | 24 Ekadashi full List with month
Ekadashi Name | In the Month of | Significance |
Putrada/ Vaikunth | Paush bright fortnight Jan | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Shat-tila | Magh dark fortnight Feb | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Jaya | Magh bright fortnight Feb | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Vijaya | Falgun dark fortnight March | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Amalaki | Falgun bright fortnight March | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Padmini Visuddha | March / April | For freedom from sins and attaining the supreme abode |
Paramaa Shuddha | March/April | For the merit ten times more than offering a thousand cows to a Brahman |
Paap mochani | April | For freedom from sins and immoral act. |
Kaamada | Chaitra bright fortnight April | For desire fulfilment |
Varutthini | Vaishakh dark fortnight May | For a sinless life filled with happiness. |
Mohini | Magh bright fortnight May | For relief from all sufferings |
Apara | Jyesth dark fortnight June | For name and fame |
Nirjala | Dwitiya Jyesth bright fortnight June | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Yogini Ekadashi | Aashadh dark fortnight June / July | For piety and good deeds |
Devshayni Aashadhi | Aashadh bright fortnight July | For Moksha (liberation) |
Kamika | Shravan dark fortnight July | For freedom from the results of committing the most heinous crime |
Putrada/ Pavitra | Shravan bright fortnight August | For a wish to be blessed with a male child. |
Aja Ekadashi | Bhadrapad dark fortnight August | For freedom from all sins and gaining higher consciousness |
Parivartini/Parsva | Bhadrapad bright fortnight September | For liberating forefathers from hell (abode of Yamaraja) |
Indira | Ashwin dark fortnight September | For liberating forefathers from hell (abode of Yamaraja) |
Paashankusha | Ashwin bright fortnight October | For fulfilment of any desire and Moksha (liberation) |
Ramaa | Kartik dark fortnight October | For elevation of fallen souls to a much higher consciousness |
Prabodhini | Kartik bright fortnight October / November | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Utpatti | Margshirsh dark fortnight November | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Mokshada | Margshirsh bright fortnight December | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Safala | Paush dark fortnight December | For control over senses and relief from sins and sufferings |
Different types and story
- Each Ekadashi has a unique historical context and mythological significance, with distinct stories and purposes.
- For instance, Putrada Ekadashi is observed to fulfill the desire for a male child, while Mohini Ekadashi is followed to atone for past-life transgressions and promotes women's empowerment.
- Mokshada Ekadashi propagates the teachings of the Mahabharata, emphasizing spiritual growth and self-reflection.
- Overall, each Ekadashi has a distinct narrative that encourages devotees to fully immerse themselves in the ritual, fostering spiritual growth, atonement, divine guidance, and a deeper connection with the divine.