ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
Now is the divine time arriving, to observe Yogini Ekadashi. Dedicated to the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Yogini Ekadashi holds great importance in Hindu traditions. It’s the eleventh day of the lunar calendar, which falls twice a month during the waxing and the waning moon.
If you don’t know the story behind Yogini Ekadashi and how to observe the Ekadashi rituals, then this blog will be helpful for you.
We will explain here the story of Yogini Ekadashi and also the do’s and don’ts for the day. So, let’s check out:
The Story Behind Yogini Ekadashi
Once upon a time, there was a King named Kubera who ruled the Alakapuri kingdom. King Kubera was a devoted worshipper of Lord Shiva and lived a life of great luxury. He also had one gardener named Hemamali whose duty was to bring fresh flowers every day, which will be used to worship Shiva Linga.
One day, Hemamli, distracted by his wife’s beauty, forgot his duty and failed to bring the flowers for puja. King Kubera got angry and cursed him that he will suffer from a disease named white leprosy and will live separated from his family.
For years, Hemamali was afflicted with the pain and lived his life apart from his family, wandering in forests. After a few years passed, he reached the Himalayas, where he found a great sage named Markandeya. Markandeya, on seeing Hemamali’s pitiable state, asked him about his story.
Listening to him, he suggested Hemamali observe Yogini Ekadashi, which falls during the Krishna Paksha of Ashaddha and ask Lord Vishnu for forgiveness.
It was then, following those sages’ instructions, that Hemamali kept Yogini Ekadashi and then the miracle happened, which transformed Hemamali’s health as his leprosy vanished. He also reunited with his family and gained his lost prosperity.
Upon returning back to Alakapuri, King Kubera got amazed to see Hemamali’s health. Seeing him fine and happy, King Kubera also started observing the vrat.
So, the story teaches us that one must not neglect one’s dharma or duties. In addition, how kind and loving Lord Vishnu is, who carries the boundless mercy when we approach them with true faith.
Therefore, anyone can get rid of their past misdeeds and overcome suffering pain through spiritual liberation and the starting step can be observing the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat.
Now, we will dwell on some do’s and don’ts to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast:
Do’s To Keep Yogini Ekadashi Fast
A. Observe A Strict Fast
Keep the intent to observe the fast righteously, following every ritual with righteousness and pure devotion.
The fasters must strictly refrain from consuming grains, beans and non-vegetarian food, even garlic, onions and mushrooms too.
B. Visit Vishnu Temple
For puja or bhakti, go to your nearest Vishnu temple. Doing tulsi puja is considered sacred for Yogini Ekadashi Vrat.
C. Engage in Religious Activities
Chant mantras related to Lord Vishnu or listen to the Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Sahasranama. Meditate and focus on self-reflection and purification.
D. Remain Pure
The vrat is kept, remaining pure the whole day. It means to wake up and bathe with the holy waters or add Gangajal to your bathing water. Wear clean, preferably white or yellow, clothes. To do Vishnu Puja, people wear Tulsi Mala too for elevating up to the highest self.
E. Do Charity
While it must be your regular ritual to help others by providing the needy people with what they need. But on the day of Yogini Ekadashi, you can please Lord Vishnu by doing charity, serving people by providing them food, clothes or the other stuff they need.
Don’ts To Observe Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Rightly
1. Refrain From Intimacy
Maintain purity and avoid indulging in intimacy, for it can disrupt your devotion to keep the vrat.
2. Do Not Sleep During The Day
Stay awake and engage in spiritual activities. Chant Vishnu Mantras or perform holy rituals to please the deity.
3. Avoid Cutting Nails Or Hair
It is considered unfavorable to cut nails or hair on the day of Yogini Ekadashi if you keep the fast.
4. Do Not Break The Fast Prematurely
The fast must be concluded on Dwadashi (the next day) after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu.
5. Avoid Eating The Forbidden Foods
Grains like rice, wheat, and lentils are prohibited to be eaten on this day. Onion, garlic and mushrooms must also be avoided.
6. Stay Away From Negativity
Avoid lying, anger, greed and any other kind of unethical behavior. Also, abstain from alcohol and tobacco.
Final Thoughts
Yogini Ekadashi is a powerful day for you to attract spiritual growth and self-discipline in life. In addition, it also reminds us of our devotion towards dharma, that it must be pure and done with true faith for achieving divine grace.
Seeking deeper knowledge into Yogini Ekadashi or any other Ekadashi fasting rituals? At Pandit.com, you’ll receive accurate, scripturally sound guidance from renowned Vedic astrologer and Mahaguru, Pt. Rahul Kaushl. Connect with us anytime for consultation!
Live happily and seek divine blessings observing Yogini Ekadashi Vrat! Hari Om
