“Aja Ekadashi”: Exploring the Sacred Fasting Ritual and Its Divine Meaning

"Aja Ekadashi" is a significant religious observance in Hinduism that holds immense spiritual importance. It falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada. Actually in the northern states of India, "Aja Ekadashi" is celebrated during the month of 'Bhadrapada', whereas in other different parts of the country, it occurs during the Hindu month of 'Shravana.' The Gregorian calendar marks its occurrence in the month of either August or September. This year, "Aja Ekadashi", also known as "Annada Ekadashi", is on the '29th August ‘24.'

As per Drik Panchang, the tithi for "Aja/ Annada Ekadashi" in ‘24 is as follows:

Aja Ekadashi on Thursday, 29th August ‘24

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 01:19 AM on 29th August ‘24
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 01:37 AM on 30th August ‘24

Lord Hrishikesh: The Supreme Deity of Aja Ekadashi:

The presiding deity of "Aja Ekadashi" is Lord Hrishikesh, Lord of Senses. The name "Hrishikesh" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Hrishi” which means senses, and "Kesh” which means master or lord. Therefore, Lord Hrishikesh is the one who has mastery and control over the senses. He's one of the names of Lord Vishnu. There's a very beautiful saying about Lord Hrishikesh in Hindu Shastras as: 'He's the Lord who turns all the senses of his devotees towards him.'

The concept of Lord Hrishikesh transcends the physical form of deities and extends to the spiritual realm. It signifies the ability to govern one's senses, desires, and impulses in a balanced and virtuous manner.

Hence, "Aja Ekadashi" is believed to have the power to wash away one's sins and grant them spiritual purification. The term "Aja" means unborn, and it is said that observing this Ekadashi helps devotees attain a state of purity akin to that of an unborn child.

Rituals & Observances of Aja Ekadashi:

On Aja Ekadashi, devotees wake up early, take a bath, and visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Special prayers and bhajans (devotional songs) are offered to seek blessings and forgiveness for their sins.

Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe a strict fast on Aja Ekadashi. This fast involves abstaining from food and water for a full day, beginning at sunrise on Ekadashi and concluding on the following day. Some devotees prefer to consume only water or fruits during this period. The fast is broken, i.e. Parana is performed, on the Dwadashi day, the twelfth day, after performing morning prayers and offering food to Lord Vishnu.

As per Drik Panchang, Parana timings for "Aja/ Annada Ekadashi" in ‘24 are as follows:

• On 30th August ‘24, Parana Time - 07:49 AM to 08:50 AM
• On Parana Day Hari Vasara End Moment - 07:49 AM

Other than these, many devotees also read or listen to the Aja Ekadashi Vrat Katha (narrative) to understand the significance of this day. It was first narrated by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishthira. The Vrat Katha (story) is related to Raja Harishchandra and is as follows:

Once upon a time, there was a renowned king named Harishchandra, celebrated for his unshakable integrity. His life took a challenging turn when the revered Sage Vishwamitra issued a daunting challenge that led to Harishchandra losing his kingdom. In response, the king, along with his family, relocated to the holy city of Kasi (Varanasi).

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Harishchandra found himself in dire circumstances, compelled by unusual events to make heart-wrenching sacrifices. He was faced with the agonizing choice of offering his beloved wife and son as part of a divine test. Additionally, he had to serve a malevolent being.

Years passed, and the king endured countless trials, growing weary of his sorrow-laden existence. In his darkest hour, he encountered the venerable Saint Gautam. Overwhelmed by despair, Harishchandra confided in the saint, sharing the depths of his predicament.

Saint Gautam, filled with compassion and wisdom, offered the king a path to redemption and liberation from his torment. He advised Harishchandra to observe the sacred Aja Ekadasi Vrat, a fasting ritual dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Embracing this divine guidance with unwavering enthusiasm, King Harishchandra undertook the Aja Ekadasi fast. Through his sincere devotion and penance, he sought to cleanse his soul and absolve himself of his past misdeeds.

As the days of fasting and prayer passed, a miracle unfolded. Harishchandra's steadfast commitment to Lord Vishnu bore fruit. His sins were forgiven, and he experienced spiritual liberation. Moreover, his wife, kingdom, and even his deceased son were miraculously restored to him.

This profound tale of unwavering faith and the transformative power of Aja Ekadasi serves as a timeless reminder of the potential for redemption and renewal through devotion and righteous actions.

The observance of this divine day of "Aja Ekadashi" provides many spiritual benefits as well.

Conclusion:

Overall, "Aja Ekadashi" is not just a day of fasting but a powerful opportunity for spiritual growth and self-purification. It is a time for devotees to strengthen their faith and seek the divine grace of Lord Vishnu. By observing this sacred Ekadashi, individuals hope to attain a state of spiritual purity and lead a more virtuous life in accordance with their beliefs.

|| Shubh Aja Ekadashi ||

श्रीकृष्ण गोविन्द हरे मुरारे।
हे नाथ नारायण वासुदेवाय।।
ॐ नारायणाय विद्महे।
वासुदेवाय धीमहि।
तन्नो विष्णु प्रचोदयात्।।

|| ॐ विष्णवे नम:||