"Parsva Ekadashi/ Parivartini Ekadashi"- Lord Vishnu's Cosmic Shift

"Parsva Ekadashi", being one of the prosperous Ekadashis in Hinduism, falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of Bhadrapada month in the Shukla Paksha as per the Hindu calendar. According to the Gregorian calendar, it falls in the month of either August or September.

This year, we are celebrating "Parsva Ekadashi" on the 14th of September ‘24.

As per Drik Panchang, the "tithi" for 'Parsva Ekadashi' in ‘24 is as follows:

Parsva Ekadashi on Saturday, 14th of September ‘24

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 22:30 on 13th of September ‘24
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 20:41 on 14th of September ‘24

Significance of 'Parsva Ekadashi':

"Parsva Ekadashi" is considered very significant as Lord Vishnu, the God of Preservation, is worshiped on this day.

In some regions, Lord Vamana (the Brahman avatar of Shri Hari Vishnu) is also worshiped. Basically, he's the fifth (5th) incarnation of Shri Hari Vishnu and has been described as a dwarf sized Brahim with youthful appearance. That's why, this Ekadashi holds utter reverence for the Sanyasis.

This Ekadashi is regarded as highly fortunate and auspicious when it falls at the time of 'Chaturmas' (the four-months holy period).

However, the immense importance of 'Parsva Ekadashi' has been depicted in ‘Brahma Vaivarta Purana’ as well.

According to the Hindu beliefs, Lord Vishnu takes rest and shifts his sleeping position from left to the right side, hence denoting a 'Parivartan' (change). That's why this Ekadashi is also known by the name "Parivartini Ekadashi."

Apart from this, some other names of 'Parsva Ekadashi' are:

‘Vamana Ekadashi’, ‘Jayanti Ekadashi’, ‘Jaljhilini Ekadashi’ and ‘Parivartini Ekadashi.’

Worship, Fasting & other Rituals:

As per Hindu Shastras, the celebrations and rituals of 'Parsva Ekadashi' or 'Parivartani Ekadashi' are to be performed during "Dakshinayana Punyakalam" which represents the 'night time of the deities.'

Basically, "Dakshinayana Punyakalam" is the time during which the Sun enters the Karkata Rashi or Karka Rasi (Cancer Zodiac) as per Hindu Astrology.

In simple terms, it is the auspicious time of the Sun's southward movement. Being a time-span of six months, it is believed to be a time when the natural forces of the universe are less favorable for external activities. It is often associated with introspection, inner growth, and religious observances.

On Parsva Ekadashi, devotees abstain from food and water for 24 hours, hence keeping a Nirjala Vrat. Some may consume fruits or milk during this period.

"Parana" (breaking or concluding of Parsva Ekadashi Vrat/ fast) is important to be done within the next day after Ekadashi, but before sunrise unless sunrise happens before Dwadashi ends. Not breaking the fast during Dwadashi is seen as a mistake.

When you break your fast (Parana), you should avoid doing it during a specific time called Hari Vasara, which is the first one-fourth duration of Dwadashi. The best time to break your fast is in the morning (Pratahkal). It's better not to do it during the afternoon (Madhyahna). If for some reason you can't break your fast in the morning, it's okay to do it after the afternoon.

As per Drik Panchang,

• On 15th Sep, Parana Time - 06:22 to 08:49
• On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 18:12

Devotees also visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and offer prayers on 'Parsva Ekadashi.'

Reading or listening to the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavad Gita, & chanting Vishnu Sahasranama is considered auspicious on this day.

Giving to the needy and helping the less fortunate is encouraged on Parsva Ekadashi.

Many devotees use this day to meditate, reflect on their lives, and seek spiritual growth.

Benefits of observing “Parsva Ekadashi”:

According to Hindu beliefs, those who observe 'Parsva Ekadashi' with devotion are blessed with good health, wealth, and happiness. The good deeds performed during this time are more valuable than those done in regular months.

The most important part of this festival is that it helps people get rid of their past mistakes and breaks free from the cycle of life and death. By fasting on this special day, it not only brings spiritual benefits but also helps people become mentally stronger.

Lesson for today's life:

On 'Parsva Ekadashi', the shift of Lord Vishnu from left to right during his cosmic slumber carries a profound lesson for our lives today. It symbolizes change and transformation. In our modern lives, it reminds us that change is a natural part of existence, and embracing it can lead to personal growth, adaptability, and spiritual evolution. Just as Lord Vishnu awakens to fulfill his divine duties, we too can awaken to new opportunities, challenges, and blessings when we navigate change with faith and resilience. It's a timeless reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of staying open to transformation.