Indira Ekadashi falls on September 17, 2025, observed on the Ekadashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin. According to religious beliefs, observing a fast on this day grants liberation to the ancestors. The story of King Indrasen illustrates the significance and method of this fast, which includes worshipping Lord Shaligram and observing the fast correctly.
Indira Ekadashi 2025: This year, Indira Ekadashi is being celebrated on September 17 and is considered the Ekadashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in Ashwin. The significance of this fast is explained through the story of King Indrasen and his father, who resided in Mahishmati city. Following the instructions of Narada Muni, the king performed Shraddha for his ancestors and observed the fast by worshipping Lord Shaligram. Religious belief holds that adherence to this fast leads to the liberation of ancestors and accrues merit for the devotees. This fast is observed from sunrise to the sunrise of Dwadashi.
Significance of Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi is celebrated on the Ekadashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin, and this year, the festival falls on September 17, 2025. According to religious beliefs, observing a fast on this day grants liberation to the ancestors. The Ekadashi fast is observed from sunrise until the sunrise of Dwadashi, and it is traditionally believed that observing this fast liberates ancestors up to seven generations. Worshipping Lord Shaligram holds special significance on this occasion.
Reading and listening to the holy story of Indira Ekadashi on this day is also considered an act of great merit. The story narrates the liberation of King Indrasen and his father, further enhancing the spiritual importance of this fast.
The Dialogue Between King Indrasen and Narada Muni
According to the story of Indira Ekadashi, King Indrasen ruled Mahishmati city. He was a devout follower of Lord Vishnu and was compassionate towards his subjects. One day, Narada Muni visited him and inquired about his well-being and devotion. The king welcomed him with respect and asked the reason for his visit.
Narada Muni explained that the king's father was in Yamaloka (the abode of Yama, the god of death) and that if the king observed the Indira Ekadashi fast on his behalf, his father would attain heaven. Upon hearing this, the king sought guidance from Narada Muni on the method of observing the fast.
Rules and Worship Method of the Fast
Narada Muni advised that on the day of Dashami, after bathing and completing other rituals, one should perform Shraddha for their ancestors. On the day of Ekadashi, after brushing their teeth, one should bathe. Taking a vow to observe the fast before Lord Shaligram, one should abstain from all worldly pleasures and remain without food throughout Ekadashi. Eligible Brahmins should be offered fruits and donations. The remaining offerings should be given to a cow.
After staying awake throughout the night, on the morning of Dwadashi, one should worship the Lord and then partake in a meal with their family. Adhering to this method leads to the liberation of ancestors and accrues merit for the devotee.
Fruits of the Fast and Attaining Liberation
King Indrasen observed the fast as instructed by Narada Muni. As a result, flowers rained from the sky, and his father ascended to Vaikuntha (Vishnu's abode) on Garuda. King Indrasen also ruled his kingdom without obstacles and eventually ascended to heaven after entrusting the throne to his son. According to the story, by observing this fast, individuals can become free from sins and attain liberation.
