Apara Ekadashi, also known as Achala Ekadashi or Bhadrakali Ekadashi, is an auspicious day observed in Hinduism. It falls on the eleventh day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, which usually corresponds to the months of May or June in the Gregorian calendar. This Ekadashi holds great significance and is believed to bestow immense spiritual benefits on its observers.
The word “Apara” means “limitless” or “infinite.” It is believed that observing Apara Ekadashi can help one attain unlimited virtues and spiritual growth. Devotees observe fasting on this day as a means of purification and spiritual devotion. The fasting starts on the Dashami (tenth day) and continues until the Dwadashi (twelfth day) of the dark fortnight.
On Apara Ekadashi, devotees engage in various religious activities to express their devotion. They visit temples and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu, seeking His blessings and forgiveness for any past wrongdoings. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi with utmost sincerity and devotion can wash away sins and bring spiritual upliftment.
Apara Ekadashi 2023
Ekadashi concentrates the mind and body, but each Ekadashi produces a special effect. Jyestha Krishna Ekadashi is called Achala or Apara Ekadashi. Following this makes atonement for the mistakes of the person. With the effect of this fast, a person’s name and fame increase. Due to its effect, the souls of the ancestors of the person get peace. This fast purifies the sanskars of a person.
Date of Apara Ekadashi
According to the Panchang, the Ekadashi date of the Krishna Paksha of Jyestha month will end on May 15 at 02.46 am and the next day on May 16 at 01.03 am. Due to Udaya Tithi, Apara Ekadashi fast will be observed on 15th May.
Rules of Apara Ekadashi
The fast of Apara Ekadashi is observed in two ways – Nirjal Vrat and Phalahari or Jaliya Vrat. A Waterless fast should be observed only by a completely healthy person. Normal people should observe fruit or water fast. Lord Trivikram is worshiped in this fast. Fruits and water are offered in this fast. It would be better to consume only water and fruits on this day.
Do Not Do These Mistakes on Apara Ekadashi
- Stay away from a vindictive diet and bad thoughts
- Don’t start the day without worshiping Lord Krishna
- Keep the mind engaged in devotion to God more and more
- On the day of Ekadashi, rice and vegetables grown in roots should not be consumed.
- Cutting of hair and nails should be avoided on the day of Ekadashi. One should not sleep till late in the morning on this day.
Also read – Who is Lord Vishnu – Hindu Gods and Deities 2023
Worship Method
On Apara Ekadashi, bathe the idol of Sri Hari with Ganges water. Offer saffron, sandalwood, flowers, basil garland, yellow clothes, kalava, and fruits to Hari. Offer Kheer or a dish made of milk to Lord Vishnu. Light incense and a lamp and sit on the yellow seat. Chant Vishnu Gayatri Mantra with Tulsi garland and Vishnu’s Gayatri Mantra ‘Om Narayana Vidmahe’. Vasudevay Dhimahi. Tanno Vishnu Prachodayat. chant. After worshiping and chanting mantras, do aarti of God with incense, lamp, and camphor. Take Charanamrit and Prasad.
Remedies
Bathe the idol of Lord Shri Hari with Panchamrit and Gangajal. Offer fruits, flowers, saffron, sandalwood, and yellow flowers to God
After worship, do aarti of Shri Hari. Chant the mantra ‘Om Namo Narayanaya or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’. After this tell your wish to God.
