Rama Ekadashi, marked as one of the most important days in the Hindu calendar, is set to be celebrated across India. However a lot of people are confused about the exact date of Ekadashi if it’s 27 or 28 of October. Let us tell you that according to the Drik Panchang, Ekadashi will begin on 27 October 2024 at 07:15 am and will end on 28 October at 08:40 am. Now when we look at Sanatan Dharma, the fast is observed on the basis of Udaya Tithi. Sunrise will occur on Ekadashi Tithi on 28 October which means that is Rama Ekadashi fast should be done on 28 October. Rama Ekadashi Parana will be done on 29 October between 6:23 am and 8:35 am.
Let us also tell you that according to Vedic calendar Ekadashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha of Kartik month will start on October 27 at 05:23 am and will end on October 28 at 07:50 am.
This auspicious day falls just four days before Diwali and is observed on the eleventh day of the Kartik month during the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase). Several other names for this Ekadashi are Rambha Ekadashi or Kartik Krishna Ekadashi, and this fast is considered as one of the most powerful Ekadashis dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the protector and preserver in the Hindu trinity.
Significance of Rama Ekadashi vrat
As per Hindu beliefs, fasting on Rama Ekadashi helps one let go of their past and present karmic sins. It is believed that those who sincerely observe the fast are blessed by Lord Vishnu and may attain Vaikuntha, his eternal abode. It is believed to provide salvation (moksha). Rama Ekadashi vrat (fast) benifits are equal to the benefits you get after performing one hundred Rajasuya Yagnas or one thousand Ashvamedha Yagnas, with devotees gaining spiritual liberation and divine grace.
How to perform Rituals
On the day of Rama Ekadashi, devotees wakeup early to take a holy bath, purifying themselves before starting the vrat. Clean the house, focusing especially on the puja room. Dressed in clean and often new attire, they perform pooja with deep devotion to Lord Vishnu. During the pooja rituals, they place the idol on a wooden plank and along with sweet offerings, flowers, and vermillion, lighting diya (lamp) are kept in front of the idols. Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, ghee, and sugar) and Tulsi leaves, considered sacred offerings, are offered to Lord Vishnu as part of the ritual. They also Bathe the idol of Lord Vishnu with panchamrit.
As of evening, devotees perform aarti, while reciting the Vishnu Sahastranaam and Shree Hari Stotram to honor and please Lord Vishnu. Bhog prasad, consisting of satvik (pure) food items such as fruits, dairy products, and fried potatoes, is then offered. Many devotees continue the fast until Dwadashi Tithi, but those who cannot continue may consume the bhog prasad in the evening. Observers are encouraged to visit temples and participate in prayers for blessings.
Rama Ekadashi Mantras
- Om Namo Bahgvate Vasudevaye..!!
- Shree Krishna Govind Hare Murari, Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva..!!
- Achyutam Keshvam Krishna Damodaram, Ram Narayanam Janki Vallabham..!!
- Hare Ram Hare Ram, Ram Ram Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare..!!
- Ram Ram Raameti Rame Raame Manorame, Sahastranaam Tatulyam Ram Naam Varanane..!!