Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Parsva Parivarthini Ekadashi, is a significant Hindu festival that falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase of the Moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada, typically occurring in August or September. This auspicious day holds deep spiritual and mythological significance, as it marks the occasion when Lord Vishnu changes his sleeping position during his 4-month long cosmic slumber in the ocean. Parsva Ekadashi is also referred to as Jaljhilini Ekadashi, Vamana Ekadashi, or Jayanti Ekadashi, and it is celebrated with great devotion and rituals by Hindu devotees across the world.

The Legend of Parsva Ekadashi

The legend associated with Parsva Ekadashi revolves around the divine incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Vamana, the dwarf. The central character in this story is King Mahabali, a powerful yet arrogant demon king who was a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. Mahabali’s tyranny reached a point where he dethroned Lord Indra, the king of the gods, from his celestial kingdom. Desperate, Indra sought the help of Lord Vishnu to reclaim his kingdom and powers.

In response to Indra’s plea, Lord Vishnu decided to intervene. He took on the guise of a diminutive Brahmin named Vamana and approached King Bali, who was known for his unwavering devotion to the divine. Vamana requested a seemingly humble boon from King Bali – just three steps of land.

King Bali, seeing the unassuming dwarf Brahmin, readily agreed to the request. However, as soon as King Bali granted the boon, something miraculous occurred. The dwarf Vamana began to grow at an astonishing rate, expanding to colossal proportions that spanned the heavens and Earth. In just two steps, Vamana covered the entire universe, leaving no space for the third step.

Realizing the divine nature of the dwarf, King Bali humbly offered his own head as a resting place for Vamana’s third step. Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana form, gently placed his foot on King Bali’s head and pushed him down to the Patala Loka, the netherworld. Through this act, Lord Vishnu granted King Bali salvation, ending his tyrannical rule while showing the path of righteousness.

The Significance of Parsva Ekadashi

Parsva Ekadashi holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and spirituality. It is a day when Lord Vishnu is venerated in his Vamana form. The importance of this Ekadashi is elucidated in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, where Lord Krishna imparts its sacred teachings to King Yudhishthira. Among the Ekadashis observed during the Chaturmas period (the four months of the rainy season), Parsva Parivarthini Ekadashi is considered the most sacred, with virtues that are of the highest moral and spiritual value.

Rituals of Parsva Ekadashi Vrat

Devotees who observe Parsva Ekadashi Vrat engage in a series of sacred rituals as a mark of their devotion and commitment. The observance of this fast is rigorous, with strict guidelines:

Fasting: Devotees begin their fast from the moment of sunrise on Ekadashi and conclude it at sunrise on the following day, Dwadasi.

Dietary Restrictions: During the fast, individuals abstain from consuming grains, rice, and beans. Instead, they sustain themselves with a diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and milk.

Chanting Mantras: Throughout the day, devotees engage in the recitation of divine mantras and prayers, particularly the Vishnu Sahasranamam, which consists of the 1000 sacred names of Lord Vishnu. This practice is believed to invite blessings and spiritual grace.

Benefits of Parsva Ekadashi Vrat

Observing Parsva Ekadashi Vrat is believed to bestow a multitude of blessings and benefits upon devotees. These spiritual advantages are deeply rooted in Hindu tradition and scriptures:

Forgiveness of Sins: The fast on Parsva Ekadashi is considered a means to seek forgiveness from Lord Vishnu for any sins committed knowingly or unknowingly. Devotees believe that their past wrongdoings are absolved through their sincere penance on this day.

Purification of Body, Mind, and Soul: Fasting and prayer on this sacred day are thought to cleanse the individual, not only physically but also mentally and spiritually. It is an opportunity for self-purification and inner transformation.

Liberation from the Cycle of Births and Deaths: The ultimate goal of Hindu spirituality is to attain moksha, liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Observing Parsva Ekadashi is believed to bring one closer to this profound spiritual realization.

Enhanced Willpower: The discipline and determination required to observe a strict fast empower individuals with increased willpower and self-control, qualities essential for spiritual growth.