Ekadashi Vrat holds significant importance in Sanātana Dharma. This fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and a total of 24 Ekadashis occur throughout the year. Each Ekadashi has a unique name, significance, and associated story. One such Ekadashi is 'Yogini Ekadashi,' observed during the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the Āṣāḍha month.
When is Yogini Ekadashi in 2025?
In 2025, Yogini Ekadashi will be observed on June 21st, Saturday. This date falls on the Ekadashi of the Krishna Paksha in the Āṣāḍha month. According to the Panchang (Hindu calendar), the Ekadashi Tithi begins at 7:18 AM on June 21st and ends at 4:27 AM on June 22nd. Following the Udaya Tithi (sunrise time), the fast and worship will be performed on June 21st.
Religious and Spiritual Significance of Yogini Ekadashi
Observing the Yogini Ekadashi fast is considered highly significant for attaining the grace of Lord Vishnu. This Ekadashi fast is believed to cleanse all sins and purify the soul. Ancient scriptures state that fasting on Yogini Ekadashi also eradicates the sins of one's ancestors and purifies their soul.
Observing this fast promotes mental peace, enhances concentration and focus, and infuses positive energy into the mind. It is believed that devotees who observe this fast with complete devotion and faith will experience improved health, happiness, prosperity, and ultimately, attain moksha (liberation).
The word "Yogini" signifies a powerful goddess or one who bestows power. Performing this fast enhances the strength of the body, mind, and soul, empowering individuals to overcome life's challenges.
Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi (Worship Method)
Before commencing the Yogini Ekadashi fast, it is essential to wake up early in the morning and maintain cleanliness. Here is a simple and effective method for performing the fast:
- Snan aur Shuddhikaran (Bath and Purification): Wake up early on the day of the fast and bathe with clean water. Wear clean clothes after bathing.
- Vrat Sankalp (Fast Resolution): Sit before the image or idol of Lord Vishnu and make a resolution for the fast. Resolve to spend the day with complete devotion and faith.
- Pooja Samagri (Worship Materials): Establish the image or picture of Lord Vishnu. Use yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, fruits, Panchamrit, Panjiri, sweets, and incense for the puja (worship).
- Mantra Jap (Mantra Recitation): Recite the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' 108 times. Mantra recitation promotes mental peace and attracts the grace of Lord Vishnu.
- Ekadashi Katha Ka Path (Recitation of Ekadashi Story): Read or listen to the Ekadashi Katha (story). Listening to or reading the Katha enhances the merit of the fast.
- Aarti (Aarti): Perform Aarti at the end of the puja and distribute Prasad (blessed offerings).
- Vrat Palan (Observing the Fast): Avoid Tamasic food such as meat, fish, onions, garlic, and alcohol. Consume pure, Sattvic, and light food or observe a nirjala (waterless) fast.
- Dvadashi Par Paran (Breaking the Fast): Break the fast the next day on Dvadashi. Offer Prasad to Lord Vishnu.
What to Do and What Not to Do During Yogini Ekadashi Vrat?
What to Do:
- Offer Tulsi leaves; worship of Lord Vishnu is considered incomplete without Tulsi leaves.
- Observe a fast throughout the day and maintain purity of mind, speech, and action.
- Donate food, clothes, and Dakshina (monetary donation) to the needy.
- Perform Deepdaan (offering of lamps) in the evening.
What Not to Do:
- Refrain from Tamasic food such as garlic, onions, meat, and alcohol.
- Avoid anger, deceit, and lies.
- Avoid unnecessary arguments.
Key Beliefs Associated with Yogini Ekadashi
It is believed that those who observe this fast with devotion and faith will be relieved of their current birth's sins and also the sins of their past lives. Observing this fast is said to end difficulties and troubles in one's life, bringing mental peace and soul purification, leading to positive changes in life.
This fast is considered a means of receiving the special grace of Lord Vishnu. Devotees who observe Yogini Ekadashi with complete rules and devotion have their wishes fulfilled, achieving success, prosperity, and happiness in life. It is believed that observing this fast helps individuals overcome difficult times and brightens their future.
Benefits of Yogini Ekadashi Vrat
- This fast enhances mental peace and spiritual strength.
- Improves physical health.
- Removes negative influences from one's life.
- Leads to wealth, prosperity, and success.
- Overcomes obstacles and strengthens destiny.
Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story)
Long ago, in the city of Alkapuri, King Kubera reigned. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and offered flowers daily to the Shivalinga. A gardener named Hem worked in his service, whose wife's name was Vishalakshi.
One day, the gardener became so engrossed in his wife's beauty that he forgot to take the flowers to King Kubera. When King Kubera went to the priest to request flowers for Shiva's puja, he learned that the gardener had not arrived. Enraged, Kubera summoned the gardener and cursed him with leprosy, banishing him from the city.
Cursed, Hem wandered through the forests. One day, he reached a sage's ashram. Sage Markandeya saw him, inquired about his plight, and after hearing Hem's story, advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast, explaining that it would absolve him of his sins.
Hem performed the Yogini Ekadashi fast with complete devotion. Pleased by his faith, Lord Vishnu cured him of leprosy, and his life became joyful. This story teaches that observing the Yogini Ekadashi fast with honesty and faith removes all life's sorrows.
The Yogini Ekadashi fast is not merely a religious ritual, but a path of self-purification and devotion. It is a powerful practice to escape the darkness of sin, disease, and suffering. Observe this Ekadashi with complete faith and ritual; undoubtedly, Lord Vishnu's grace will shower upon you, bringing happiness and peace to your life.
