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In 2025, we will celebrate Aja Ekadashi on 19th Aug.
Let us understand its Story, Significance, and Rules, along with how to observe this sacred vrat to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu
Aja Ekadashi is one of the most sacred fasting days in the Hindu calendar, observed on the Krishna Paksha Ekadashi (11th day of the waning moon) in the month of Bhadrapada.
This vrat is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver and protector of the universe. It is believed that observing Aja Ekadashi with devotion washes away all sins, frees the soul from the cycle of rebirth, and grants entry into Vaikunth (the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu).
The name “Aja” signifies something that cannot be destroyed — symbolizing eternal truth and the indestructible nature of the soul. According to ancient scriptures, fasting on this day is more powerful than performing hundreds of yajnas, and simply hearing its story grants the merit of an Ashwamedha Yajna.
The Story of Aja Ekadashi
Once, Dharmaraj Yudhishthir asked Shri Krishna about the significance of the Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha Ekadashi. Shri Krishna narrated the story of King Harishchandra, renowned for his unwavering truthfulness.
To fulfill a promise to Rishi Vishwamitra, Harishchandra gave away his kingdom, wealth, and even sold himself, his wife, and his son. Reduced to working as a servant in a cremation ground, he still never abandoned truth.
One day, Sage Gautam visited the king, heard his plight, and advised him to observe the upcoming Aja Ekadashi. Harishchandra kept the fast with complete devotion and stayed awake through the night in worship of Lord Vishnu.
That very day, his son, who had died of a snake bite, was brought to the cremation ground. Through the power of the fast and the king’s truthfulness, Lord Vishnu appeared, praised him, restored his son’s life, returned his kingdom, and blessed him with heavenly abode after a long and prosperous reign.
Significance of Aja Ekadashi
- Removes all sins from past and present lives.
- Bestows health, happiness, and prosperity in this life.
- Grants liberation (moksha) and entry into Vaikunth.
- Hearing the story itself grants the merit of performing an Ashwamedha Yajna.
How to Do Aja Ekadashi Vrat
To receive the full benefits of Aja Ekadashi, the vrat must be observed with discipline for three days — Dashami, Ekadashi, and Dwadashi.
1. Dashami (Day Before Ekadashi)
- Eat only once before sunset.
- Avoid masoor dal, chana dal, kodo millet, honey, and food cooked where meat is prepared.
- Avoid leftovers, food from others, and any intoxicants.
- Maintain celibacy and control over the senses.
2. Ekadashi (Main Fasting Day)
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Clean and decorate the home altar.
- Worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, incense, lamp, and Tulsi leaves.
- Recite the Aja Ekadashi Vrat Katha and chant the mantra: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.
- Observe Nirjala (waterless fast), or if unable, take only fruits, milk, and water.
- Avoid sleeping during the day or night; spend time in bhajan, kirtan, and scripture reading.
- Avoid gossip, anger, lies, and any form of violence or harm to others.
3. Dwadashi (Day After Ekadashi)
- Break the fast after sunrise at the proper parana time.
- Offer food to Brahmins or the needy before eating yourself.
- Avoid heavy food, masoor dal, honey, oily food, and intoxicants.
- Eat only sattvic food once during the day.
Spiritual Note from the Saints
Saints caution that without God’s shelter and satsang, four things can cause downfall — wealth, youth, high position, and ignorance. But when guided by devotion and wisdom, these same gifts can become powerful tools for service and spiritual progress.
Summary
Aja Ekadashi is a powerful day to cleanse the heart, mind, and soul. Observing it with sincerity and following the rules brings divine blessings, worldly prosperity, and eternal liberation.
Even those who simply listen to or narrate the story of Aja Ekadashi receive great spiritual merit.
Chant: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya 🙏
