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Mokshada Ekadasi December 2024 - How To Observe - Mantra

Mokshada Ekadashi is observed during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of November – December. The importance of this Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhishtira by Sri Krishna and is found in the Brahmanda Purana. Observing this Ekadasi helps in destroying all the sins. In 2024, the date of Mokshada Ekadashi is December 11. Ekadasi fasting is dedicated to Bhagvan Srihari Vishnu and is observed twice in every Hindu month.

The name Mokshada because the Ekadasi has the power to annihilate (Moh - Maya) - desires and illusion.


Story of Mokshada Ekadashi

There is a popular belief that observing Mokshada Ekadasi will help in granting heaven to dead forefathers. Legend has it that King Vaikhanasa, a popular ruler, once had a dream that his father was in hell. The King found himself helpless as he could not help his father with all his power and riches. Soon he took the advice of Parvata Muni, who had the knowledge of past, present and future.

Parvata Muni found that the father of King Vaikhanasa had committed some sins and as a result he was suffering in hell. To help his father the Saint asked him to observe Mokshada Ekadasi.

Soon the king, his wife and relatives observed Mokshada Ekadashi and saved the King’s father from hell.

How to Observe Mokshada Ekadashi

  • The Damodar form of Sri Krishna is worshipped on the day with Tulsi leaves and it seeds. Offering Tulsi seeds to Damodar Krishna helps in attaining Moksha.
  • The lamp on the day should be lit using ghee. Coriander seed (Dhaniya) should be put in the ghee.
  • Chandan dhoop should be used.
  • Roli thread can be worn on the day. This is not necessary.
  • Chandan should be offered to Krishna and should be worn on forehead.
  • The fruit that is offered on the day is Sitaphal (Custard Apple).
  • While color sweet is made and offered.
  • The following Mantra is chanted 108 times श्री कृष्ण दामोदराय नमः॥
  • Offering banana to cow on the day will help in overcoming all forms of fear.
  • Plant Tulsi plants and take care of it for peace and prosperity.
  • All the normal rules associated with Ekadasi fasting is observed on the day.
The day is also observed as Gita Jayanti.

Two other important Ekadasis observed on the day in certain years are Guruvayur Ekadasi in the famous Guruvayur Temple in Kerala and Kaisika Ekadasi in Srirangam and other Vishnu temples in Tamil Nadu.

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