In Hindu Sanatan Dharam, Vijaya Ekadashi holds a special place. On this day, many devotees observe a fast and pray to the Lord. Today, we’ll discuss the significance of Vijaya Ekadashi and when is this auspicious day in 2025.
What is the Story behind the Vijaya Ekadashi?
Hindu scriptures and the famous epic Ramayana claim that Ravana abducted Goddess Sita and imprisoned her in Lanka during exile. Lord Hanuman told Lord Rama that Mother Sita was in Lanka when he was looking for Goddess Sita. Lord Rama had to travel across the ocean to Lanka with the Vanar Sena to save the Goddess.
At that moment, when everyone was upset about the situation, Lakshman recalled that Bakadalabhya was a wonderful Sage. He suggested seeking advice from the wise man. Sage Bakadalabhya was a wise and profound sage who had the privilege of seeing Brahma. He used to help individuals and offer solutions to their difficulties based on his knowledge.
The saint advised Lord Rama to keep a fast on Vijaya Ekadashi when he went to the sage’s hermitage for his advice. He stated that the Vijaya Ekadashi fast is the most comprehensive and effective way to overcome obstacles and achieve success and victory in their mission.
Lord Rama followed the sage’s advice and fasted on Vijaya Ekadashi, which provided him with a solution. He recalled that their army included two Vanaras by the names of Nila and Nala, both of whom were cursed by a sage that nothing they tossed into the river will sink but instead float. They all brought boulders and tons of stones, and together they built a huge bridge that allowed them to cross the ocean.
Following that, Lord Rama and Ravana fought a battle in which Rama destroyed Ravana. Lord Rama won the day because of his observance of the Vijaya Ekadashi fast. Since then, people have observed the Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat with devotion and have listened to the Vijaya Ekadashi Katha to complete the fast.
What are the Glories of this Ekadashi?
Make a water container out of gold, silver or even copper the day before Ekadashi. If these metals are not accessible, clay will do. After adding clean water, gently adorn the container with mango leaves. Place it atop a pile of seven grains, cover it and place it next to a holy altar (the seven grains are wheat, barley, corn, rice, kukani, chickpeas and peas.
Take your morning bath now and decorate the water pot with flower garlands and sandalwood paste before placing the barley, pomegranate and coconut within the concave lid on top of the pot. Now worship the water pot deity form with love and devotion and present Him with incense, sandalwood paste, flowers, a ghee lamp and a dish of delectable food. That night, stay awake next to this holy pot. Put a golden murti of Lord Krishna/Narayana on top of the lid that is loaded with barley and other grains.
Take the water jug to the bank of a sacred river or even to the edge of a tiny pond as the Dwadasi dawns. After you have properly worshipped it once more, give it to a brahmin with a pure heart who is knowledgeable in the Vedic sciences, together with all the things listed above. You will undoubtedly triumph in life if you worship Ekadasii in this manner. Even Lord Rama observed the fast following the same instructions and won the battle against Ravana.
Importance of Observing Fast on Vijaya Ekadashi?
As indicated by the name, Vijaya Ekadashi represents victory. To increase their chances of success, people have to observe a fast and ask for Lord Vishnu’s blessings.
Vijaya is one of the principal gatekeepers of Lord Vishnu’s celestial abode Vaikuntha, according to texts and beliefs. He and his brother Jaya are thought to protect the heavenly kingdom.
Devotees pray to Lord Vishnu for a happy life on earth while keeping a fast. They also want to secure themselves a spot in Vaikuntha Dham after their earthly trip. Thus, the main goal of fasting is to achieve Moksha, or salvation from the cycle of birth, life and death, once one’s lifespan has come to an end. The Ekadashi fasting or Vrata emphasizes the need to purify the mind and free oneself from the effects of one’s wrongdoings from a spiritual standpoint.
Why Give Donations on Vijaya Ekadashi?
According to scriptures, Vijaya Ekadashi fast and making donations on this day is auspicious. You need to fast and donate money, clothes or metal to get virtuous fruits and lead to success in life. Ultimately, devotees will attain Moksha after fasting and donating on this day, along with Hare Krishna chanting.
Conclusion
According to the Hindu calendar, Lord Vishnu is honoured on the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight. It is said that fasting on Ekadashi is the most challenging yet effective method to connect with the Supreme Being and ask for his blessings. You can even worship Lord Krishna followed by the Krishna mantra and mantra meditation to attain the same results as worshipping Lord Vishnu.
