Amalaki Ekadashi 2026 – Worship of the Sacred Amla Tree

 

Date: February 27, Friday

Calendar Context

• Observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of Shukla Paksha in the month of Phalgun.
• Also called Phalgun Shukla Ekadashi.
• Falls between Maha Shivratri and Holi, marking the onset of spring festivities.

Legends & Scriptural References

• Lord Vishnu in the Amla Tree: Believed to reside in the sacred Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry) tree on this day.
• Brahmanda Purana: Mentions the greatness of Amalaki Ekadashi, narrated by Saint Valmiki.
• Names Across Regions:
• Sarbasammat Ekadashi in Orissa.
• Papanasini Ekadashi in some regions, symbolizing freedom from sins.
• Associated with Goddess Lakshmi and the divine presence of Radha-Krishna near the tree.

Rituals

• Morning Worship: Devotees wake at sunrise, perform ablutions, and worship Lord Vishnu and the Amla tree.
• Offerings: Water, sandalwood, roli, rice, flowers, and incense are offered to the tree.
• Sankalp: Made with sesame seeds and coins, seeking moksha.
• Brahmin Bhojan: Food offered beneath the Amla tree to Brahmins.
• Alternative Worship: If Amla tree is unavailable, devotees worship the sacred Tulsi plant.
• Fasting:
• Strict fast: Only food made from amla consumed.
• Partial fast: Avoiding grains and rice.
• Vrat Katha: Listening to the Amalaki Ekadashi story after puja.
• Jaagaran: Staying awake all night, chanting bhajans and hymns in praise of Vishnu.

Regional Observances

• Mewar, Rajasthan: Fair at Gangu Kund Mahasatiya; potters from Gogunda bring new earthen vessels, symbolizing renewal.
• Orissa: Celebrated as Sarbasammat Ekadashi with grand rituals at Jagannath and Vishnu temples.
• North India: Widely observed with temple decorations and community bhajans.

Spiritual Significance

• Observing Amalaki Ekadashi is believed to:
• Wash away sins (Papanasini).
• Grant entry to Vaikuntha, the abode of Vishnu.
• Bestow health, wealth, and prosperity.
• The following day, Govinda Dwadashi, is also considered highly auspicious.