Fasting during Ekadashi is considered to be a holy act. The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and all the devotees keep fast on Ekadashi to gain his blessings. In a year, there are 24 Ekadashis in total. However, Ekadashi falls twice a month during the Krishna Paksha and Shukla Paksha. The names and significances vary according to every Ekadashi. This year, ‘Amalaki Ekadashi’ will be observed on March 20 during Phalguna month. It falls during Shukla Paksha.
What does ‘Amalaki Ekadashi’ signify?
Amalaki Ekadashi, like the other Ekadashis, has its significance that has a profound religious and spiritual impact on the Hindus. On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped by his devotees to obtain his blessings. It is said that fasting on this auspicious day and praying to Lord Vishnu liberates people from their past life sins. Additionally, it brings health, wealth, happiness, and prosperity to the lives of the devotees.
As per Hindu scriptures – “people should offer prayers to the Amla tree and offer amla to Lord Vishnu” on the day of Amalaki Ekadashi. The reason is the symbolization of amla for long life. Hence, it is widely believed that people who worship the Amla tree and pray to Vishnu are blessed with a long life.
On this day, firstly people wake up early and cleanse themselves by taking a bath. They then mop the house and the temple. They place an idol of Lord Vishnu and adorn him with yellow flowers. Diya poured with desi ghee, is lighted before the Lord.
People prepare homemade bhog prasad and sweets to offer to Lord Vishnu. Tulsi dal is also provided to the Lord. People chant Lord Vishnu Mantra and recite Amalaki Ekadashi Vrat Katha. The fast is broken the next day on Dwadashi Tithi. But, people who suffer from health conditions or cannot stay on an empty stomach for long break their fast and consume sattvic food.
Puja timings
Amalaki Ekadashi will begin on March 20, 2024, at 12:21 AM and end on March 21, 2024, at 02:22 AM.
Mantras for Amalaki Ekadashi
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye”
“Hare Ram Hare, Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare Hare, Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare.”
“Ram Ram Rameti Rame Raame Manorame Sahasranama Tatulyam Ram Naam Varanane”
