“Mohini Ekadashi: A Journey of Redemption and Spiritual Enlightenment”

'Mohini Ekadashi, one of the auspicious days of Hindu calendar, falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight of moon) in Vaisakha month. As per Gregorian calendar, it lies in April or May. This year, it's on '19th May ‘24.'

As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Mohini Ekadashi” in ‘24 is as follows:

Mohini Ekadashi on Sunday, May 19 ‘24

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 11:22 AM on May 18 ‘24
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 01:50 PM on May 19 ‘24

It is also known as 'Vaisakha Shukla Ekadashi' & 'Wish Fulfilling Ekadashi.'

According to Hindu Dharma, "Mohini" (literal meaning being - attractive) is one of the divine forms of the preserver of this universe- Shri Hari Vishnu. It is believed that during Samudra Manthan (ocean's churning), nectar was churned out. And as a result, a dispute started between the demons and the deities about who will consume the Amrit. Then the deities went to Lord Vishnu to seek help. And at that time, Lord Vishnu took the form of a very beautiful attractive woman named Mohini. All the demons got mesmerized by her immense beauty and forgot about the Amrit. Meanwhile, all the deities consumed the nectar of immortality. As Lord Vishnu took Mohini Avatar on this day, that's why it came to be known as 'Mohini Ekadashi.'

There is a great legend as well behind this pious day of Mohini Ekadashi: Once, there lived a King namely Dhrutimaan in the city of Bhadravati situated near Saraswati river. He was a very firm devotee of Shri Hari Vishnu & used to chant to him everyday. Dhrutimaan had 5 sons namely- Sumana, Sadbuddhi, Medhavi, Sukruti and Dhrishtabuddhi. Out of the five, Dhrishtabuddhi was the most sinful person. He was involved in bad deeds and immoral activities like gambling.
Seeing his son crossing all the limits, Dhrutimaan deserted him from the kingdom. Dhrishtabuddhi started living in the forest & survived by killing birds and other wild creatures. One day, he was wandering in the forest. On the way, he arrived at Sage Kaundinya's hermitage. It was the time of Vaisakha month & Rishi was taking a holy bath in a side-by river. When he came out of the waterbody, some droplets just splashed on Dhrishtabuddhi's body. Then he had a conversation with Rishi Kaundinya. He started regretting his bad Karmas. He pleaded to guide him for attaining salvation from his past deeds. The Sage suggested that he keep a dedicated fast of Mohini Ekadashi. Dhrishtabuddhi did the same with utter devotion and ultimately, he got redemption from all his bad deeds and started living a contented happy life.

The scriptures say that this fast of Mohini Ekadashi was also kept by Shri Ram (to free Sita from Lanka Pati Ravana) & King Yudhisthira (for his wife Draupadi). As a result, they both succeeded in fulfilling their desires.

Similarly, on this very divine occasion of Mohini Ekadashi, the devotees keep a strict fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu for desire fulfilment, achieving salvation, successful & joyful life, and receiving the ultimate blessings of the Almighty. It is also helpful in curing illnesses and maintaining good health. Avoid the consumption of rice & barley as they are considered to nullify the righteous acts on this day.

“Parana”, i.e. breaking of fast is done on Dwadashi, i.e. the next day.

As per “Drik Panchang”,

• On 20th May ’24, Parana Time - 05:28 AM to 08:12 AM
• On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 03:58 PM

Apart from this, performing Puja to Lord Vishnu with flowers, fruits and sweets on this day can bring happiness, prosperity & spiritual benefits. This day also purifies the mind and body of the devotees & brings peace to their lives.

This occasion of Mohini Ekadashi finds utmost significance in the Surya Purana. There's a strong belief that this day can lead to achieving "Punya" in life. The observance of this Ekadashi has been given a place in the Vedas equivalent to going to a pilgrimage site & giving donations to the needy.

So let's praise Lord Vishnu this Mohini Ekadashi and get on the path of being a 'Punyaatma.'

|| Shubh Mohini Ekadashi ||