Mumbai: As the sacred Hindu calendar moves towards the Krishna Paksha of Jyeshtha month, devotees across India and around the world prepare to observe Apara Ekadashi—an important fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This year, Apara Ekadashi falls on 23rd May 2025, and holds immense spiritual weight for those seeking freedom from past sins, divine blessings, and the path to salvation.

Regarded as one of the most fruitful Ekadashis, this vrat (fast) is believed to absolve even the most serious sins and bestow the devotee with wealth, fame, and peace of mind. On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his Vamana avatar, and devotees engage in rituals, fasting, chanting, and charitable acts. The observance is especially powerful for those desiring moksha (liberation) and divine grace.

Apara Ekadashi 2025 Date and Timings

According to the Hindu Panchang, Apara Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi tithi (11th lunar day) of the Krishna Paksha during the month of Jyeshtha. In 2025, the Ekadashi tithi begins at 1:12 AM on 23rd May and ends at 10:29 PM the same night. Following the traditional Udaya Tithi rule (based on sunrise), the fast will be kept on Friday, 23rd May 2025.

Rituals and puja vidhi

Devotees begin preparations on the evening of Dashami (the 10th lunar day), consuming a light satvik meal and observing celibacy. On Ekadashi morning, a ritual bath is taken—often with water mixed with Gangajal—and a firm resolution to fast is made. The puja involves placing an image or idol of Lord Vishnu at the place of worship, offering yellow garments, sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, and lighting a diya.

Tulsi leaves are a must-have offering, as is bhog made with fruits, sweets, and Tulsi. Devotees chant mantras like “Om namo bhagavate vasudevaya” and recite the Vishnu Sahasranama. Listening to or reading the Apara Ekadashi Vrat Katha is considered highly auspicious. The fast is concluded the next day, on Dwadashi, after sunrise, by performing a simple meal (Parana) and offering donations to the needy.

Spiritual Importance of Apara Ekadashi

Apara Ekadashi is celebrated for its transformative power. Hindu scriptures state that observing this fast can wash away grave sins such as Brahmahatya (killing a Brahmin), cow slaughter, and slander. It is also believed to grant the spiritual merit equivalent to taking a dip in the Ganges or donating gold, land, and cows.

This vrat is especially recommended for those seeking inner purification, worldly success, and a path toward liberation. With sincere devotion, Apara Ekadashi helps devotees connect deeply with Lord Vishnu, fostering peace, prosperity, and divine protection.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)