Aja Ekadashi 2024: Know date, timings, rituals, history, dos and don'ts

Aja Ekadashi is an important religious observance in the Hindu tradition, especially revered for its spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this day is considered one of the most sacred occasions to worship and honour the deity. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers with deep faith, seeking blessings for prosperity, happiness, and fulfilment of wishes. In 2024, Aja Ekadashi will be observed on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada, falling on August 29.

Aja Ekadashi 2024 Date and Timings

Aja Ekadashi 2024 is set to be observed on August 29, 2024. Below are the key timings for this auspicious day:

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: August 29, 2024, at 01:19 AM
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: on August 30, 2024, at 01:37 AM
• Parana Time: August 30, 2024, from 07:49 AM to 08:01 AM
• Hari Vasara End Moment: August 30, 2024, at 07:49 AM

Aja Ekadashi 2024 Dos:

• Observe the Ekadashi fast with proper rituals.
• It is considered auspicious to donate special items.
• Offer Lord Vishnu his favourite foods.
• Make sure to include Tulsi (holy basil) leaves in the offerings.
• Complete the fast with the proper ritual (Parana).
• Engage in singing devotional songs and hymns.
• Worship Tulsi Mata (Goddess Tulsi).
• Clean the temple thoroughly.

Aja Ekadashi 2024 Don't's:

• Do not eat rice on Aja Ekadashi.
• Avoid consuming tamasic (heavy or non-vegetarian) foods.
• Refrain from engaging in arguments or disputes.
• Do not disrespect elders or women.
• Avoid wasting money.
• Do not harm or disturb animals and birds.
• It is forbidden to pluck Tulsi leaves on Ekadashi.
• Do not sleep during the day after performing the morning prayers.

Aja Ekadashi 2024 Puja Rituals

Observing Aja Ekadashi involves a series of rituals that devotees perform with devotion:

• Early Morning Bath: Begin the day by taking a holy bath early in the morning.
• Idol Placement: Place an idol of Lord Vishnu on a wooden plank, along with a Shree Yantra, representing Goddess Laxmi.
• Lighting the Diya: Light a diya using desi ghee and offer flowers, a garland, and chandan tilak to the deity. Don’t forget to offer Tulsi Patra (holy basil leaves).
• Offering Prasad: Prepare and offer Panchamrit, fruits, and sweets like Makhana kheer to Lord Vishnu.
• Chanting and Recitation: Recite the Aja Ekadashi Katha and chant mantras such as "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" throughout the day.
• Breaking the Fast: The fast can be broken on Dwadashi Tithi. If you cannot bear the hunger, you may break the fast by consuming milk products and fruits, and then complete the fast the next day with a meal of rice and salty foods.
• Aarti and Distribution: Conclude the rituals by performing the Aarti and distributing Panchamrit to all family members.

Significance of Aja Ekadashi 2024

Aja Ekadashi, also known as Ananda Ekadashi, is celebrated with immense devotion across the Hindu community. This day is purely devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Devotees who fast on this day with unwavering faith are believed to receive blessings from the deity, including good health, wealth, and the fulfilment of all their desires. The power of this fast is such that it is said to provide benefits equivalent to those received from performing the Ashwamedha Yagya.

Aja Ekadashi 2024 History and Story

The significance of Aja Ekadashi is deeply rooted in Hindu scriptures. According to legend, King Harishchandra, renowned for his honesty, lost his kingdom and family due to past karmic actions. Wandering in the forest, he met Rishi Gautam, who advised him to observe the Aja Ekadashi fast. The King followed the sage's advice, performed the fast with all the necessary rituals, and eventually regained his kingdom and family. From that day onwards, King Harishchandra observed the Aja Ekadashi fast regularly.

Mantras to Chant on Aja Ekadashi 2024

- Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

- Ram Ram Raameti Rame Raame Manorame Sahasranama Tatulyam Ram Naam Varanane

- Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare

Disclaimer: The information provided about Aja Ekadashi 2024, including dates, timings, rituals, and significance, is based on traditional sources and religious practices. For accurate and personalised guidance, please consult a knowledgeable priest or spiritual advisor. This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice or religious counsel.

Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.

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