Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
Rama Ekadashi, also known as Rambha Ekadashi or Kartik Krishna Ekadashi, is a significant fasting observance in Hinduism. This Ekadashi occurs just four days before Diwali. Falling during the auspicious Kartik Month (October-November), it holds deep religious and cultural importance. This article delves into the story, significance, and puja rituals associated with Rama Ekadashi.
In the ancient times, there lived a devout king named Muchukunda, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. His daughter, Chandrabhaga, was married to Prince Shobana, the son of King Chandrasen. King Muchukunda, being deeply devoted to Lord Vishnu, instructed the people in his kingdom to observe the Rama Ekadashi fast. Chandrabhaga, since her childhood, had been observing this fast with unwavering dedication.
On one Rama Ekadashi, Prince Shobana was present in King Muchukunda’s kingdom. However, he was unwell and unable to observe the fast. Chandrabhaga, who was committed to this ritual, suggested that he leave the kingdom during this period. Nevertheless, Shobana was determined to keep the fast.
Tragically, Prince Shobana succumbed to thirst and hunger during the midnight hours while observing the Rama Ekadashi fast. His devotion and sacrifice did not go unnoticed. As a result, he was rewarded with a kingdom on Mandrachala Mountain for his unwavering commitment to the fast.
A Brahmin who was on a spiritual journey came across Shobana and his kingdom. Shobana, realizing the temporary nature of his newly acquired kingdom, confided in the Brahmin. He asked the Brahmin to convey to his wife, Chandrabhaga, that the kingdom would vanish because it was not built on a foundation of willingly observing Rama Ekadashi, as Shobana had sought to make it permanent.
Upon hearing this from the Brahmin, Chandrabhaga, blessed with the merits of her numerous Rama Ekadashi fasts, was able to convert the temporary kingdom into a permanent one. Thus, the couple was reunited and lived a divine and blissful life.
Rama Ekadashi carries immense significance in Hinduism, primarily due to its occurrence during the Kartik Month, which is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Vishnu. Devotees who observe this fast do so with great devotion and dedication, believing that it can absolve them of sins and suffering.
Goddess Lakshmi is also known as Rama, which is one of the reasons why this Ekadashi is highly significant for Lord Vishnu. One of the unique aspects of Rama Ekadashi is its ability to cleanse even the gravest of sins. It is believed that individuals burdened by the sin of Brahma Hatya (killing a Brahmin) can find redemption through the observance of Rama Ekadashi. In fact, the merits accrued from observing this fast are equated to the rewards of performing 1000 Ashwamedha Yajnas and 100 Rajashuya Yajnas making it an exceptionally meritorious and rewarding ritual.
•Begin your day by waking up early in the morning.
•Take a purifying bath to cleanse yourself.
•Clean your house, paying special attention to the puja room.
•Take an idol of Lord Vishnu and give it a sacred bath with panchamrit (a mixture of milk, honey, yogurt, ghee, and sugar).
•Place the idol on a wooden plank.
•Light a diya (lamp) to symbolize the divine presence.
•Offer garlands, flowers, sweets, panchamrit, and Tulsi Patra (holy basil leaves) to the idol.
•Spend the entire day chanting the mantra “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaye,” focusing on the Lord’s divine name.
•In the evening, continue your worship of Lord Vishnu.
•Light a diya and recite Vishnu Sahasranama (a sacred hymn with a thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and Shri Hari Stotram (devotional verses in praise of Lord Vishnu).
•Break your fast with fruits and milk products as your meal.
•The fast is fully concluded on Dwadashi Tithi during Parana Time.
Observing Rama Ekadashi with these rituals is a way to seek spiritual blessings and connect with Lord Vishnu.
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