Padma Ekadashi Fasting Story (Parivartini Ekadashi)
Padma Ekadashi, also known as Parivartini Ekadashi, is one of the most significant days in the Hindu calendar, particularly for the devotees of Lord Vishnu. This Ekadashi falls during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapada (August-September). The word “Parivartini” means “the one who changes,” and it signifies the day when Lord Vishnu, who is in a deep slumber during Chaturmas, changes his sleeping posture. This day holds immense spiritual significance as devotees observe fasts, worship Vishnu, and seek his divine blessings to attain liberation from all sins.
Significance of Padma Ekadashi
The spiritual significance of Padma Ekadashi is vast. It is said that observing a fast on this day helps devotees rid themselves of all past sins, leading them toward spiritual liberation, or Moksha. According to religious texts, Lord Vishnu is particularly receptive to the prayers and devotion shown by his followers on this day, blessing them with happiness, prosperity, and eternal peace. The day also marks the transition of Lord Vishnu’s form, known as Yoga Nidra, in which he changes his position. This divine moment is celebrated by his devotees with great reverence and devotion.
The Story of Padma Ekadashi (Parivartini Ekadashi)
The story of Padma Ekadashi originates from the ancient dialogue between Lord Krishna and King Yudhishthira. When Yudhishthira asked Lord Krishna to explain the significance of this Ekadashi, Krishna recounted the following story:
Once, there was a pious and benevolent king named Harishchandra who ruled over his kingdom with utmost righteousness. Despite being a just king, he was struck by a string of misfortunes. His kingdom faced famine, his wife and son had to endure hardships, and eventually, the king was left with nothing. The king, though surrounded by adversities, continued to adhere to the path of truth and righteousness. As a result, his good deeds in the past came to his rescue.
One day, as King Harishchandra was wandering in the forests in despair, he met a sage who suggested that he observe the fast of Padma Ekadashi. The sage explained that fasting on this day would cleanse him of all sins, alleviate his suffering, and restore his kingdom and happiness. Harishchandra followed the sage’s advice and observed the fast of Padma Ekadashi with utmost devotion. By the grace of Lord Vishnu, his life took a turn for the better. His kingdom was restored, and all his sufferings were alleviated. Since then, the fast of Padma Ekadashi has been celebrated for its power to remove difficulties and restore peace.
Rituals and Observances of Padma Ekadashi
The observance of Padma Ekadashi is marked by several rituals and fasting rules that devotees must follow to gain the full spiritual benefit of this sacred day. Here is a step-by-step guide to the typical rituals followed on this Ekadashi:
- Morning Bath and Cleanliness: The day of Padma Ekadashi begins with devotees waking up early, taking a ritualistic bath in sacred water bodies like rivers or, if not available, at home with clean water. It is essential to wear fresh, clean clothes after the bath as a sign of purity.
- Sankalp (Vow): After the bath, devotees take a vow, or Sankalp, to observe the fast throughout the day, dedicating themselves to the worship of Lord Vishnu. This vow is taken to ensure that the devotee remains spiritually focused and avoids any distractions that may lead them away from their devotional path.
- Worship of Lord Vishnu: A significant part of the day involves worshipping Lord Vishnu. Devotees place an idol or image of Vishnu on a clean altar and offer flowers, fruits, Tulsi leaves (considered sacred to Vishnu), and sweets as part of the ritual. Lamps and incense sticks are lit, and devotional songs or mantras such as the Vishnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Vishnu) are chanted.
- Fasting: The primary element of Padma Ekadashi is fasting. Devotees abstain from grains, cereals, and beans on this day. While some devotees observe a strict waterless fast, others may partake in fruits, milk, or light, non-cereal foods. The level of fasting depends on personal choice and physical capacity, but the intention behind the fast remains the same: purification of the soul and seeking divine blessings.
- Night Vigil and Bhajans: On the night of Padma Ekadashi, it is considered highly auspicious to stay awake and engage in devotional singing, prayers, and chanting. This night vigil, known as Jagran, is meant to express one’s dedication to Vishnu and to honor the moment when the Lord changes his position during his divine sleep.
- Breaking the Fast (Parana): The fast is broken on the next day, known as Dwadashi, after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. The fast should be broken with simple, light food after offering it to God.
Importance of Parivartini Ekadashi in Scriptures
The importance of Padma Ekadashi is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures such as the Vishnu Purana, Padma Purana, and Bhavishya Purana. According to these ancient texts, Padma Ekadashi holds the power to free a devotee from the cycle of birth and rebirth, granting them liberation or Moksha.
The Padma Purana particularly highlights the glory of this Ekadashi, stating that those who observe it with devotion and faith will be blessed with wealth, health, and eternal peace. It also mentions that the spiritual merits earned by fasting on Padma Ekadashi are equivalent to performing numerous yagnas (sacrificial rituals).
The Vishnu Purana describes that even the gods and sages observe this Ekadashi, acknowledging its immense spiritual benefits. The Bhavishya Purana adds that observing this fast not only brings spiritual merit but also helps remove obstacles from one’s life and grants success in all endeavors.
Spiritual Benefits of Observing Padma Ekadashi
- Purification of Sins: One of the most significant benefits of fasting on Padma Ekadashi is the cleansing of past sins. Whether intentional or unintentional, any misdeeds committed by an individual can be atoned for through sincere devotion and fasting on this sacred day.
- Attainment of Moksha: The ultimate spiritual goal for most devotees is liberation from the cycle of life and death. Observing the Padma Ekadashi fast is believed to bring one closer to Moksha, as it invokes the blessings of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe.
- Removal of Obstacles: Devotees who observe this fast often experience relief from various obstacles in their personal and professional lives. It is said that the grace of Vishnu can remove all kinds of material difficulties, allowing individuals to lead a prosperous and peaceful life.
- Health and Well-being: The Ekadashi fast is also known to have positive effects on one’s physical health. Fasting helps detoxify the body, improves digestion, and enhances mental clarity. When combined with the spiritual aspect of worship and meditation, it promotes overall well-being.
- Divine Protection: According to legends, devotees who observe Padma Ekadashi with full faith are under the divine protection of Lord Vishnu. His blessings ensure safety from evil forces, negative energies, and harmful influences.
Padma Ekadashi, or Parivartini Ekadashi, is a day of immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Vishnu. Observing this fast with full devotion and sincerity can bring about profound changes in one’s life, both materially and spiritually. Through the rituals, fasting, and prayers offered to Vishnu, devotees seek not only the Lord’s blessings but also the purification of their souls and the path to Moksha.
For those looking to strengthen their spiritual connection and cleanse themselves of past misdeeds, Padma Ekadashi provides a sacred opportunity to align with divine energy and experience the grace of Lord Vishnu.
