Utpanna Ekadashi- Awakening Divine Blessings and Celebrating Spiritual Triumph

"Utpanna Ekadashi" or "Utpatti Ekadashi" is the very first Ekadashi occuring after Kartik Purnima. It is observed on the eleventh day, i.e. Ekadashi during Krishna Paksha of Margashirsha month in the northern states of India as per Hindu Panchang. While in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh, it lies in the month of Kartik.

According to the Tamil Calendar, it falls in the Karthigai Masam while as per the Malayalam calendar, it takes place in Thulam of Vrischika Masam month.

And as per the Gregorian Calendar, it is likely to occur in the month of either November or December.

This year, "Utpanna Ekadashi" is on the 8th Dec. 2023.

 

As per Drik Panchang, the "tithi" for "Utpanna Ekadashi" in 2023 is as follows:

Utpanna Ekadashi on Friday, December 8, 2023

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 05:06 AM on Dec 08, 2023

• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 06:31 AM on Dec 09, 2023

 

 Importance of "Utpanna Ekadashi" in Hinduism:

"Utpanna Ekadashi" is of utmost significance in Hindu Dharma as the genesis of Ekadashi fasting, dedicated to Goddess Ekadashi, a formidable Shakti of Lord Vishnu. Born out of Lord Vishnu to thwart Demon Mur's nefarious intentions against the sleeping deity, Goddess Ekadashi stands as a protective force. Additionally, Goddess Vaishnavi, a part of Sapta Matrika, is another divine power associated with Lord Vishnu.

Marked as the birth anniversary of Ekadashi, Utpanna Ekadashi sees devotees initiating their yearly fasting commitments. Those who pledge to observe Ekadashi fasting commence their spiritual journey on this auspicious day.

Utpanna Ekadashi's profound significance is eloquently detailed in Hindu scriptures such as the 'Bhavishyottara Purana,' where a dialogue between Sri Krishna and King Yudhisthira unfolds its greatness.

This observance is equated with the virtuous acts of donating on auspicious occasions like 'Sankranti' or partaking in a sacred bath at Hindu pilgrimage sites.

The spiritual merit of Utpanna Ekadashi extends beyond mortal realms. Observers are believed to be absolved of sins, attaining moksha or salvation and finding a direct passage to Lord Vishnu's celestial abode, 'Vaikunth,' upon departing from this world. The solemnity of Utpanna Ekadashi is said to surpass the benevolence of donating a thousand cows, emphasizing its extraordinary spiritual potency.

Observing Utpanna Ekadashi is regarded as equivalent to fasting for the three principal deities of Hinduism – Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. This profound connection inspires Hindu devotees to undertake the Utpanna Ekadashi vrat with unwavering dedication and fervor, seeking spiritual elevation and divine blessings.

 

 Legend behind "Utpanna Ekadashi":

There is a very great story behind "Utpanna Ekadashi" mentioning about the annihilation of the demon Mur by Ekadashi Mata which is as follows:

Once upon a time in a distant era known as Satya-Yuga, a menacing demon named Mura caused chaos. He defeated powerful beings like Lord Indra, the Sun God, Agni, Vayu, and even Lord Brahma. Desperate, the defeated gods sought help from Lord Shiva, who advised them to approach Lord Vishnu.

The distressed gods pleaded with Lord Vishnu to save them from Mura's tyranny. In response, Vishnu directed them to face Mura in his capital city, Chandravati. A fierce battle ensued, with the demons overpowering the gods, forcing them to retreat.

Witnessing the gods' struggle, Lord Vishnu entered the scene, using his powerful arrows to decimate the demonic forces. However, Mura, protected by mystical powers, remained invincible. Undaunted, Vishnu engaged in a thousand-year wrestling match with the demon but couldn't defeat him.

Tired from the prolonged battle, Lord Vishnu sought refuge in a cave named Himavati in Badarikashrama, where he fell into a deep slumber. Seizing the chance, Mura discovered Vishnu asleep and prepared to attack. At that critical moment, a radiant young girl emerged from Vishnu's body, wielding divine weapons and challenging Mura to battle.

The maiden, named Ekadashi, turned out to be a manifestation of Vishnu's internal power. She skillfully disarmed and ultimately defeated Mura, putting an end to his reign of terror. Upon waking, Lord Vishnu was astonished to find the demon defeated and questioned the maiden's identity.

Ekadashi explained that she was a form of divine power and requested a boon from Lord Vishnu. She asked that those who observe a fast on the day of her first appearance have their sins forgiven. Ekadashi outlined the details of the fast, specifying different levels of observance and the corresponding blessings, ranging from a place in Lord Vishnu's abode to spiritual and religious qualities, wealth, and salvation.

Pleased with Ekadashi's devotion, Lord Vishnu granted her request, declaring that fasting on Ekadashi would bring greater benefits than other fasts or sacrifices. He affirmed that this sacred day, the eleventh day of the waning moon, would hold special significance for those seeking spiritual and divine blessings.

 

 Rituals followed on "Utpanna Ekadashi":

The devotees follow the rituals of "Utpanna Ekadashi" with full devotion. Some of them are as follows:

• On Utpanna Ekadashi, devotees wake up early before sunrise & worship Lord Krishna during the auspicious 'Brahma Muhurat.'

• After completing their morning rituals, they offer prayers to Mata Ekadashi and Lord Vishnu.

• Special offerings and food are presented to please the deities.

• Keeping fast is the most important part of this day as "Utpanna Ekadashi" is associated with the origin of Ekadashi fasting.

For those aiming to observe an annual Ekadashi fast, starting it on Utpanna Ekadashi is a significant tradition. According to Hindu beliefs, fasting on this particular day is thought to cleanse devotees of both past and present sins.

The fast starts from the early morning of Ekadashi and is concluded at the sunrise of ‘Dwadashi’.

 

As per Drik Panchang, the "Parana" timings for "Utpanna Ekadashi" in 2023 are as follows:

On 9th Dec,

• Parana Time - 01:22 PM to 03:28 PM

• On Parana Day Hari Vasara End Moment - 12:41 PM

Chanting Vedic mantras and singing devotional songs is considered a good practice on this day.

On Utpanna Ekadashi, it's a good tradition to give to others in the form of donations. You can donate food, money, and clothes to those who are poor or in need or to some old age home, or an orphanage.

Donations to mathas, temples or  Brahmins (priests) is considered highly auspicious. My highest recommendation is - ‘Give whatever you can, as it's a way of sharing, caring and helping others on this special day.

|| Om Namo Narayanaya ||