Yogini Ekadashi,
observed on the Krishna Paksha Ekadashi of Ashadha Masam, is dedicated
to Lord Vamana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It falls in Ashadha
Masam as per the North Indian calendar, but in Jyestha Masam
in South India. This fast is particularly beneficial for those seeking relief
from illnesses, especially skin-related ailments like leprosy, and
it is believed to cleanse past sins, leading to a happy and prosperous
life.
Rituals & Observances
Preparation & Fasting
Rules
- Begins from Dashami (10th day)
and continues until Dwadashi (12th day).
- If a devotee cannot fast
completely, they can consume satvik food, avoiding grains and
salt.
- Tulsi leaves
must be bought a day earlier, as plucking Tulsi on Ekadashi is prohibited.
- Peepal tree worship
is considered auspicious.
- Visiting Vishnu temples,
chanting mantras, and reading scriptures such as Bhagavat
and Bhagavad Gita are highly recommended.
- The observer should maintain purity
and wake up before sunrise, staying clean throughout the day.
Puja Rituals
- Lord Vishnu is worshipped
with flowers, incense, lamps, and water offerings.
- Devotees sing bhajans and
perform aarti, even if they are not fasting.
- Prasad distribution
(usually sweets or fruits) concludes the puja.
- Maintaining night vigil and
engaging in prayers brings greater spiritual benefits.
Fast Conclusion (Parana)
- On Dwadashi (the next morning), devotees perform final prayers, distribute prasad, and donate food and clothes to the needy.
Legend of Hema Mali
The significance of Yogini
Ekadashi is explained through a legend in the Padma Purana,
featuring Hema Mali, a gardener in Alakapuri, under King
Kuvera. Hema Mali, deeply engrossed in his love for his beautiful wife Swarupavati,
neglected his duty of delivering flowers for Shiva’s worship.
- King Kuvera,
enraged by his negligence, cursed him with white leprosy, causing
him to be banished and separated from his wife.
- After years of suffering, he
reached the ashram of Sage Markandeya, who advised him to observe
Yogini Ekadashi.
- Upon completing the fast with
devotion, Hema Mali regained his divine form, reunited with his
wife, and lived a blissful life.
- Removes past sins
and provides good health.
- Equivalent to feeding 80,000 Brahmins
in terms of spiritual merit.
- Brings prosperity and happiness to the devotee’s life.