Ekadashi in December 2024: Ekadashi is one of the most important and sacred days in Hinduism, dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and offer prayers to honour Lord Vishnu on this auspicious day. Let’s learn about the dates, Parana timings, rituals, and spiritual significance of Ekadashi in December 2024.
Ekadashi meaning "the eleventh day," refers to the 11th lunar day (tithi) in both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of the moon, according to the Vedic calendar. On this day, devotees fast, pray, and follow religious rituals to seek Lord Vishnu's blessings. It is a significant day in Hinduism, particularly in Vaishnavism, a major tradition within Sanatan Dharma. Devotees dedicate this day to worshipping Lord Vishnu, often by fasting or observing symbolic rituals. The goal is to cultivate self-discipline and spiritual growth, which align with the principles of Sanatan Dharma.
In December 2024, three Ekadashi days are observed. Below are the dates and timings:
| Month: | Margashirsha (Shukla Paksha) |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Tithi Starts: | December 11, 2024, at 03:42 AM |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends: | December 12, 2024, at 01:09 AM |
| Parana Timing:? | December 12, 2024, between 07:04 AM and 09:08 AM |
| Dwadashi End Time: | December 12, 2024, at 10:26 PM |
| Month | Margashirsha (Shukla Paksha) |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Tithi Starts: | December 11, 2024, at 03:42 AM |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends: | December 12, 2024, at 01:09 AM |
| Parana Timing: | December 12, 2024, between 07:04 AM and 09:08 AM |
| Dwadashi End Time: | December 12, 2024, at 10:26 PM |
| Month: | Pausha (Krishna Paksha) |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Tithi Starts: | December 25, 2024, at 10:29 PM |
| Ekadashi Tithi Ends: | December 17, 2024, at 01:43 AM |
| Parana Timing: | December 27, 2024, between 07:12 AM and 09:16 AM |
| Dwadashi End Time: | December 28, 2024, at 02:26 AM |
The primary reason for observing Ekadashi is to achieve better control over the mind and body, directing these energies towards spiritual progress. Fasting on this day is also believed to offer various health benefits. Traditionally, the fast lasts for three days:
- Dasami (the day before Ekadashi): Devotees eat a single meal in the afternoon to ensure the stomach is empty the following day.
-Ekadashi: Many follow a strict fast, refraining from food and water altogether.
-Dwadashi (the day after Ekadashi): The fast is broken only after sunrise.
For those who cannot follow such a strict regimen due to health or lifestyle reasons, there are more flexible fasting options.
Devotees can choose the type of fasting that suits their physical and spiritual needs:
-Nirjala: A complete fast without food or water.
-Jalahar: Only water is consumed throughout the day.
-Ksheerbhoji: Devotees consume milk and dairy products.
-Phalahari: Only fruits are eaten.
-Naktabhoji: A single meal is taken, usually in the evening. This meal includes items like sabudana (tapioca), singhara (water chestnut), shakarkand (sweet potato), potatoes, and groundnuts. However, grains, lentils, rice, and cereals are strictly avoided.
-Spiritual Growth: It is a day for self-reflection, helping devotees develop inner peace and discipline.
-Gratitude and Repentance: Devotees thank Lord Vishnu for his blessings and seek forgiveness for past mistakes.
-Happiness and Prosperity: Regular fasting and prayers on Ekadashi are believed to bring joy, success, and well-being.
By following these traditions with sincerity, devotees strengthen their bond with Lord Vishnu and gain spiritual benefits.
Performing pujas and prayers on Ekadashi is an important part of the observance. Here is a step-by-step guide to follow the rituals:
-Wake up early and take a bath to purify yourself.
-Clean your home and wear fresh, clean clothes.
-Place a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu on a clean wooden plank.
-Light a diya using desi ghee to begin the prayer.
-Offer Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu, as they are considered sacred.
-Chant holy mantras like Vishnu Sahasranama and the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra at least 108 times.
-Present offerings such as Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee), fruits, and flowers.
-Pray with devotion and ask for blessings, prosperity, and peace.
-Reflect on the teachings of Lord Vishnu and meditate for inner peace.
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Shree Krishna Govind Hare Murari, Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva
Achyutam Keshavam Krishna Damodaram, Ram Narayanam Jaanki Vallabham
Ram Ram Raameti Rame Raame Manorame, Sahasranama Tatulyam Ram Naam Varanane
Typically, there are 24 Ekadashis in a calendar year. However, in a Hindu leap year, there may be two additional Ekadashis. Each Ekadashi is believed to offer unique spiritual benefits, often tied to specific rituals or practices performed on that day.
Ekadashi in December 2024 is a great opportunity to connect with Lord Vishnu and experience spiritual fulfilment. By observing fasts, performing rituals, and seeking forgiveness, devotees can bring peace, prosperity, and joy into their lives. Each Ekadashi, whether Guruvayur, Mokshada, or Saphala, carries unique significance. Celebrate this sacred day with faith and devotion to embrace its full benefits.
Make your Ekadashi observance in December 2024 meaningful by following these rituals and experiencing the spiritual joy it offers!
Note: Dates and timings may change; the details provided are based on current information.?
To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.