Rama Ekadashi, a significant Hindu observance, is a day dedicated to fasting, prayer, and devotion in honor of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Falling on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the bright lunar fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Kartika, Rama Ekadashi carries great spiritual and religious significance for millions of devotees across India and the world. In this article, we delve into the customs, rituals, and spiritual essence of Rama Ekadashi.
Significance of Rama Ekadashi
Rama Ekadashi holds great significance as per the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana. Observing a fast on this auspicious day is believed to help individuals rid themselves of past sins and wrongdoings. Worshipping Lord Vishnu with a pure heart may lead to salvation through the Lord’s grace. Reciting Lord Vishnu’s mantras or ancient tales on this day can bring significant progress in one’s life. Some devotees also organize Vishnu Puja or Lakshmi Puja to appease the Lord, which can help cleanse them of their sins and pave the way for success.
Story of Rama Ekadashi
According to ancient Hindu scriptures, there was once a King named Muchukunda, who ruled a prosperous kingdom and counted Indra, Varuna, and Kubera among his dear companions. He was a devout devotee of Lord Vishnu and had a daughter named Chandrabhaga, who observed the Rama Ekadasi fast from her childhood. Chandrabhaga asked her husband, Prince Shoban, to observe the fast. Shoban agreed but could not control his hunger and passed away before dawn.
A Brahmin named Soma Sharma, passing through Muchukunda’s kingdom, found the prince and asked for help. Prince Shoban, in his last moments, asked the Brahmin for assistance. Soma Sharma later informed Chandrabhaga about the incident and revealed that if someone could give up all their virtues for a lifetime from observing the Rama Ekadasi fast, Prince Shoban and his kingdom would return to the mortal world. Chandrabhaga willingly gave up all her virtues to bring her husband back, and the couple’s happiness was restored.
Importance of Rama Ekadashi Vrat
Fasting is a significant ritual on the day of Rama Ekadashi, beginning from Dashami, the day before Ekadashi. Devotees abstain from consuming regular food and have only a Satvik meal once before dusk on this day. The fasting concludes on the next day, Dwadashi tithi.
Devotees dedicate this day to Lord Vishnu by performing Vishnu Puja, offering flowers, fruits, incense sticks, and dhoop to the idol of Lord Vishnu. Some also prepare Bhog as an offering. The day’s rituals conclude with Aarti and the distribution of Prasad among other devotees.
Devotees offer prayers to Devi Lakshmi alongside Lord Vishnu to seek blessings of prosperity, health, and happiness. Many stay awake late into the night, singing devotional songs or reading the holy book of ‘Bhagavad Gita’ or Vishnu Sahastranama Stotram.
Benefits of Rama Ekadasi Vrat
Devotees observing strict fast on Rama Ekadashi may experience the following benefits:
- Relief from past sins or unintentional wrongdoings.
- Attainment of salvation for oneself and one’s ancestors.
- Equivalent spiritual benefits to performing numerous Rajasuya Yagnas or Ashwamedha Yagnas.
- Restoration of peace and happiness in the family.
- Protection from evil forces and hidden enemies by Lord Vishnu.
Foods to Avoid During Rama Ekadashi Vrat
Here are the food items to avoid during the Rama Ekadashi Vrat:
- Grains and Cereals: Devotees refrain from consuming grains and cereals, such as rice, wheat, and lentils, to honor the fast.
- Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic are considered tamasic (foods that induce lethargy) and are avoided during the vrat.
- Non-Vegetarian Food: Consumption of non-vegetarian items is strictly prohibited during Rama Ekadashi.
- Foods with High Water Content: Foods like watermelon, cucumber, and other watery fruits and vegetables are avoided to maintain the fasting regimen.
