In Hinduism, Ekadashi Vrat is considered highly auspicious. There are 24 Ekadashis throughout the year, each with its own unique significance. The Ekadashi that falls on the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the Ashadh month is known as Yogini Ekadashi. This date is not only considered an opportunity for the destruction of sins but also an excellent time to receive the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
According to mythological beliefs, observing the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat bestows the same merit as feeding 88,000 Brahmins. Observing this fast is believed to alleviate life's difficulties and bring spiritual and familial happiness.
Yogini Ekadashi 2025: Date and Auspicious Muhurat
According to the Panchang:
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: June 21, 2025, 7:18 AM
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: June 22, 2025, 4:27 AM
Considering the Udaya Tithi, the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat will be observed on June 21 (Saturday).
Vrat Parana Time
The time for Vrat Parana, or breaking the fast, is particularly important.
Parana Muhurat: June 22, 2025, 1:47 PM to 4:35 PM
Breaking the fast within this time is considered auspicious.
Religious Significance of Yogini Ekadashi
Yogini Ekadashi holds immense religious significance. Observing the fast and performing puja on this day is believed to eliminate sins and bring happiness, prosperity, and peace into one's life. This fast is specifically performed to please Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the merit gained from Yogini Ekadashi is equivalent to donating thousands of cows, undertaking a pilgrimage, and studying the Vedas. With sincere devotion, Lord Vishnu fulfills all desires and grants liberation from life's sorrows.
Yogini Ekadashi Vrat and Puja Vidhi
The Yogini Ekadashi Vrat is considered to begin on the evening of Dashami Tithi. Special care should be taken with food and conduct from this day onwards. The puja vidhi is as follows:
Precautions on Dashami Tithi
- Have a light dinner, excluding wheat, mung beans, and barley.
- Refrain from consuming salt.
- Maintain mental purity and resolve to observe the fast the following day.
Puja Vidhi on Ekadashi Tithi
1. Bathing and Sankalpa
Wake up early in the morning, bathe, and wear clean clothes. Make a Sankalpa (resolve) before Lord Vishnu to observe the fast and perform puja with devotion throughout the day.
2. Preparing the Puja Place
Clean the puja place, spread a yellow cloth on a Choki (small platform), and install the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu.
3. Puja Materials
- Yellow flowers
- Tulsi leaves
- Lamp, incense
- Panchamrit (a mixture of five nectars)
- Bhog (offering of kheer, fruits, sweets)
4. Puja Vidhi
- Bathe Lord Vishnu with Gangajal (Ganges water) if possible.
- Offer sandalwood paste, Akshat (unbroken rice grains), and flowers.
- Offer Bhog with Tulsi leaves.
- Chant the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya'.
- Finally, recite Vishnu Sahasranama or Vishnu Chalisa.
5. Night Vigil (Jagaran)
On the night of Ekadashi, recite the Bhagavad Gita, Puranas, or stories of Lord Vishnu. This is highly meritorious.
Mythological Story Associated with Yogini Ekadashi
In ancient times, Hemamali, the head gardener of King Kubera of Alkapuri, was supposed to observe Yogini Ekadashi Vrat, but he broke his fast due to his wife's influence. As a result, he contracted leprosy, and the king banished him from the kingdom. He went to the Himalayas and performed the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat according to the prescribed method with Rishi Markandeya, which completely restored his health and destroyed all his sins.
Benefits of Observing Yogini Ekadashi Vrat
- Liberation from life's crises
- Mental peace and spiritual strength
- Destruction of sins and increase in virtuous deeds
- Progeny happiness and family well-being
- Relief from diseases and suffering
- Special grace of Lord Vishnu
Yogini Ekadashi is not merely a process of fasting, but a symbol of spiritual practice, purity, and devotion. On this day, one should perform puja with a sincere heart to obtain the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Devotees who observe this fast progress on the path of happiness, prosperity, and moksha (liberation) in life.
