What is Shattila ekadashi and How to do Shattila ekadashi fast - Shattila Ekadashi is a revered Hindu fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu, celebrated during the Krishna Paksha of the Magha month. Known for its association with sesame seeds, this day emphasizes purification, charity, and spiritual growth.
What is Shattila ekadashi and How to do Shattila ekadashi fast
Observing the Shattila Ekadashi fast, accompanied by prayers, rituals, and charitable acts, is believed to cleanse the soul and bring divine blessings. This guide will walk you through the significance of Shattila Ekadashi and provide a step-by-step approach to observing the fast with devotion and sincerity.
What is Shattila Ekadashi?
Shattila Ekadashi is a significant Hindu fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in the month of Magha (January or February). The term "Shattila" comes from "til" (sesame seeds), which hold a central role in the rituals and observances of this day. Observing Shattila Ekadashi is believed to cleanse sins, enhance spiritual growth, and bring prosperity. The day emphasizes charity, especially with sesame seeds, which symbolize purification and divine blessings.
Significance of Shattila Ekadashi
- Purification: It is believed that using sesame seeds for bathing, consumption, and charity purifies the body and soul.
- Spiritual Growth: Observing the fast and engaging in prayers and charity help in attaining spiritual benefits and pleasing Lord Vishnu.
- Blessings: Charity and good deeds on this day are said to bring prosperity, happiness, and peace.
How to Observe Shattila Ekadashi Fast: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparation (A Day Before)
- Clean your home and create a peaceful environment.
- Prepare sesame seeds, sesame oil, and other necessary items for rituals and charity.
- Avoid consuming grains, pulses, and heavy food from the night before.
2. Morning Rituals
- Wake up early before sunrise, take a bath, preferably with water infused with sesame seeds.
- Wear clean clothes and set up a space for worship with an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu.
3. Prayer and Worship
- Light a lamp with sesame oil and incense sticks.
- Offer flowers, fruits, sesame seeds, and sweets made of sesame to Lord Vishnu.
- Chant the following mantras to invoke blessings:
Vishnu Mantra:
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय | Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya |Gayatri Mantra:
ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यम् भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात् | Om Bhur Bhuvah Swah Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat |
4. Recitation of Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Katha
- Read or listen to the Shattila Ekadashi story (Vrat Katha), which narrates the significance and benefits of observing this fast.
5. Fasting Rules
- Nirjala Fast: If you opt for a strict fast, avoid all food and water.
- Falahar Fast: Consume fruits, milk, nuts, and light foods, but strictly avoid grains, rice, lentils, and beans.
6. Charity
- Donate sesame seeds, sesame oil, food, clothes, or money to the needy.
- Feeding cows, Brahmins, and the poor is considered highly auspicious.
7. Evening Rituals
- In the evening, perform another round of prayers, lighting lamps, and chanting mantras.
- Offer sesame seeds to the deity again.
8. Breaking the Fast (Parana)
- The fast is broken on the next day, Dwadashi, after feeding the poor and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu.
- Prepare a meal with sattvic ingredients (no onion or garlic) and consume it after offering it to the deity.
By following these steps and observing the fast with devotion, devotees seek to attain spiritual purification, divine blessings, and fulfillment of their wishes.
