HOW TO OBSERVE EKADASI?

HOW TO OBSERVE EKADASI?

As said to Arjuna by Krishna as said in the Bhavisyottara Purana.

(1) For the first time, you may begin to observe the Ekadasi fasting from Utpanna or Uttpatti Ekadasi in November – December.  However, one can start from any Ekadasi
(2) Lord Vishnu blessed goddess ekadasi that anyone who observes Ekadasi fast will be freed of their sins and will attain Moksha.
(3) Wake up early in the morning.
(4) Preferably, take bath and offer prayers before sun rise.
(5) Perform a simple puja to Lord Vishnu/ Krishna at home by lighting a lamp and offering fruits and Tulsi leaves.

Chant a few rounds in the morning.

Visit the Vishnu/ Krishna temple.

(6) HOW TO FAST?

Fast from grains.

Fasting can be followed for 24 hours  from 05.00 AM,   Even a partial fast from food on Ekadasi is blessed by the lord.

If you have any health problem or are taking medicines, please consult your doctor before deciding on fasting. You can also opt for a partial fast by avoiding food made of rice and other grains.

Avoid eating on a bell metal plate. 

Do not apply oil  to hairs on the day.

Those taking partial fast can consume water, fruits and milk.

Continiue some rounds of chanting throughout the day whenever you get gap amidst your works.

Take a simple bath in the evening.

Repeat the puja to Vishnu/ Krishna as done in the morning.

Visit Vishnu/ Krishna temple and witness the evening puja and rituals.  Chant a few rounds.

Chant Hare krishna Maha Manthra. You can also recite Vishnu Ashotharam and/ or Vishnu Sahasranamam.  Hare Krishna Maha Manthra is compulsory.

The fast is broken on the next day (Dwadashi) after sun rise and after taking bath. Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu/ Krishna  by lighting a lamp and then you can break the fastafter sun rise.