Kamda Ekadashi, observed on April 8th, 2025, is a significant Hindu festival falling on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadashi) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Chaitra month, according to the Hindu calendar. It is considered a particularly auspicious Ekadashi, believed to fulfill desires.
Why is Kamda Ekadashi so special?
The word 'Kamda' signifies 'fulfiller of desires.' It is believed that observing a fast and performing devotion to Lord Vishnu on this Ekadashi grants fulfillment of sincere and righteous wishes. This observance not only paves the path to liberation (moksha) but is also believed to provide relief from worldly obstacles, illnesses, debts, fears, and mental distress.
This Year's Special Conjunction
Kamda Ekadashi in 2025 holds special significance due to the confluence of two auspicious yogas (astrological combinations):
Ravi Yoga: Considered auspicious for success in endeavors and overcoming obstacles.
Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: Indicates the attainment of all kinds of success, accomplishment, and benefits.
The presence of both these yogas makes this year's observance exceptionally potent and meritorious.
The Kamda Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story)
According to the Vishnu Purana, in ancient times, King Pundarik ruled the city of Bhogapur, inhabited by Gandharvas (celestial musicians), Apsaras (celestial nymphs), and Kinnaras (mythical beings). One day, a Gandharva singer named Lalit was performing in the royal court. Lost in thoughts of his wife, Lalita, he faltered in his performance.
This disrespect was unacceptable in the royal court. A Naga (serpent) named Karkat informed the king. The enraged king cursed Lalit to be reborn as a Rakshasa (demon). Upon learning this, Lalita became distraught and sought refuge in the hermitage of Sage Shringi. The sage advised her to observe the Kamda Ekadashi fast.
Lalita performed the fast with complete devotion and dedicated its merits to her husband. Through the power of this merit, Lalit was freed from his Rakshasa form and returned to his Gandharva form.
Rituals and Importance of the Puja (Worship)
For the Kamda Ekadashi Vrat, devotees observe the fast, either completely without water (nirjala) or with fruits (falahari), starting from Dashami (the tenth lunar day) the previous day. The day involves the worship of Lord Vishnu, recitation of the Vrat Katha (fast story), and chanting of mantras. A night vigil (jagaran) is observed, and the fast is broken (parana) on the morning of Dwadashi (the twelfth lunar day).
Who should observe this Vrat?
Those facing personal problems
Those seeking true love, marriage, progeny, career advancement, or spiritual growth
Those seeking liberation from sins and religious purity in life
Conclusion
Kamda Ekadashi is not merely a fast; it's a confluence of faith, love, austerity, and liberation. Through this observance, individuals can dispel the darkness in their lives and move towards enlightenment. This year's rare yogas make this occasion even more auspicious. Those who perform this fast with devotion are sure to have their desires fulfilled.
