Spiritual Significance: Aja Ekadashi is observed for the purification of the soul and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (moksha). It is believed that observing this fast can erase sins and bring about spiritual upliftment.
Legend: According to Hindu mythology, the significance of Aja Ekadashi is associated with King Harishchandra, a legendary king known for his truthfulness and integrity. It is believed that by observing the Aja Ekadashi fast, King Harishchandra was relieved of his hardships and restored to his throne and family.
Rituals:
Fasting: Devotees undertake a strict fast, often abstaining from all grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some may observe a complete fast without any food or water, while others may consume only fruits and milk.
Prayers and Puja: Devotees worship Lord Vishnu with devotion. They recite Vishnu Sahasranama (the thousand names of Vishnu) and other prayers. Temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu may have special ceremonies and offerings on this day.
Charity: Engaging in charitable activities, donating to the needy, and helping the poor are considered highly auspicious acts on Aja Ekadashi.
Importance in Vaishnavism: Aja Ekadashi holds special importance among followers of Vaishnavism, who regard the Lord.
The celebration of Aja Ekadashi typically involves various rituals, prayers, and acts of devotion.
Here's how the festival is celebrated:
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Observance of Fast: Devotees observe a strict fast on Aja Ekadashi, abstaining from grains, beans, certain vegetables, and sometimes even water. Some may choose to observe a partial fast by consuming fruits, milk, and other fasting-friendly foods.
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Prayers and Puja: Devotees wake up early and take a ritual bath before performing prayers and puja. They visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where special ceremonies are held. The main focus of the prayers and puja is Lord Vishnu, whom devotees seek to please and appease through their devotion.
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Recitation of Scriptures: Many devotees recite sacred texts such as the Vishnu Sahasranama (the thousand names of Lord Vishnu), the Bhagavad Gita, or other Vishnu-related scriptures. These recitations are considered auspicious and help in invoking the blessings of the deity.
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Charitable Acts: Giving alms, donating to the poor, and performing acts of charity are integral parts of Aja Ekadashi celebrations. Devotees believe that such acts of kindness and generosity bring merit and blessings.
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Offerings: Offerings of fruits, flowers, incense, and sweets are made to Lord Vishnu in temples and household altars. These offerings symbolize devotion and gratitude towards the deity.
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Community Gatherings: In some places, communities come together to celebrate Aja Ekadashi collectively. They may organize Satsang (spiritual discourses), bhajan (devotional singing), and kirtan (chanting of holy hymns) sessions to enhance the spiritual atmosphere.
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Reflection and Meditation: Aja Ekadashi is also a time for introspection and spiritual contemplation. Devotees reflect on their lives, seek forgiveness for past wrongdoings, and resolve to lead a righteous and virtuous life.
Legend behind Aja Ekadashi
The legend behind Aja Ekadashi is narrated in the ancient Hindu scripture, the Padma Purana. According to this legend:
Once there was a king named Harishchandra, renowned for his truthfulness and righteousness. However, due to a series of unfortunate events, he lost his kingdom, wealth, and even his family. He became impoverished and wandered in despair.
In his wanderings, King Harishchandra met the sage Gautama, who advised him to observe the Aja Ekadashi fast to overcome his misfortunes and regain his lost kingdom and family.
Following the sage's advice, King Harishchandra observed the Aja Ekadashi fast with utmost devotion and sincerity. He spent the day in prayer, meditation, and chanting the glories of Lord Vishnu.
Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before King Harishchandra and blessed him. As a result, all his misfortunes were dispelled, and he was reunited with his family. He regained his lost kingdom and ruled with righteousness once again.
Since then, Aja Ekadashi came to be celebrated as a day of great significance, symbolizing the power of devotion, truth, and righteousness. It is believed that observing this fast with sincerity can bring blessings, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment to devotees.
अजा एकादशी व्रत विधी हिंदी में जानने के लिये यहां क्लिक करें