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How to Keep Aja Ekadashi Fast in Hinduism?

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Aja Ekadashi, observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September), is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Observing this sacred day is believed to absolve all sins, grant liberation (moksha), and bestow material and spiritual blessings. Below is an expanded guide to observing Aja Ekadashi:

1. Preparation Before Aja Ekadashi

  • Spiritual Mindset: Begin preparations a day before (Dashami). Avoid tamasic food (onions, garlic, meat, and alcohol) and maintain cleanliness and purity in thoughts and actions.
  • Mental and Emotional Readiness: Cultivate devotion and detachment from material distractions. Focus on surrendering to Lord Vishnu.

2. The Daily Routine on Aja Ekadashi

Morning

  1. Early Morning Bath: Take a ritual bath early, preferably in a holy river or at home with clean water, while chanting: "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya"
  2. Sankalp (Vow): Resolve to observe the fast and perform the worship with sincerity.
    • Say: "I undertake this fast on Aja Ekadashi to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu for spiritual upliftment and liberation from sin."

Worship of Lord Vishnu

  1. Create a Sacred Space: Set up an altar with a picture or idol of Lord Vishnu. Adorn the space with flowers, lamps, and incense.
  2. Offerings (Naivedya): Present fruits, milk, tulsi (holy basil), and sweets prepared without grains. Chant the mantra: "Om Vishnave Namah"
  3. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama: Chanting the 1,000 names of Vishnu is highly auspicious.
  4. Perform Aarti: Sing devotional hymns and perform aarti with a lamp.

Daytime

  • Reading Scriptures: Read sacred texts like:
    • Bhagavad Gita: Focus on chapters emphasizing detachment and devotion (Chapters 9 and 12 are significant).
    • Srimad Bhagavatam: Stories of Lord Vishnu's incarnations (avatars) deepen the connection.
  • Mantras and Japa: Chant Vishnu mantras like:
    • "Om Namo Narayanaya"
    • "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya"

Evening

  • Tulsi Worship: Light a lamp near a Tulsi plant and pray for purification and divine grace.
  • Bhajans and Kirtans: Sing devotional songs, such as:
    • "Govindam Adi Purusham"
    • "Achyutam Keshavam"

3. Observing the Fast

  • Types of Fasts:
    • Nirjala (Waterless): Consuming nothing for 24 hours.
    • Phalahar (Fruit Only): Fruits, milk, and nuts are allowed.
    • Satvik Diet: Avoid grains, pulses, and rice; consume light, simple foods.
  • Discipline:
    • Avoid anger, gossip, and distractions. Focus on maintaining inner peace and devotion.
    • Engage in charity, such as donating food or clothes to the needy.

4. Breaking the Fast (Parana)

  • Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) after feeding a Brahmin or offering food to the needy.
  • Consume a light meal of Satvik food, beginning with water or fruits.

5. Philosophy of Aja Ekadashi

The observance is rooted in the principle of self-discipline and detachment. It is a reminder that:

  • Life's ultimate goal is liberation (moksha), attainable through devotion (bhakti).
  • Fasting and prayers cleanse both body and mind, facilitating spiritual growth.

6. Practical Suggestions

  • Set Alarms: To ensure timely prayers and observance, especially if you're new to fasting.
  • Prepare in Advance: Cook suitable Satvik meals or arrange for offerings beforehand.
  • Limit Physical Activity: Conserve energy to focus on spiritual pursuits.

7. Lesser-Known Facts

  • Legend: Aja Ekadashi is associated with King Harishchandra, whose sins were absolved through its observance.
  • Tulsi Leaves: Offering Tulsi to Lord Vishnu amplifies the benefits of your prayers.
  • Fasting Benefits: Apart from spiritual rewards, fasting enhances physical health by detoxifying the body.

8. Mantras and Prayers of Vishnu

  • Key Mantras:
    • "Om Vasudevaya Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Vishnu Prachodayat"
    • "Om Anantaya Namah"
  • Prayer (Stuti):
    • "Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanabham Suresham Vishwadharam Gaganasadrisham Meghavarnam Subhangam Lakshmi Kantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhirdhyanagamyam Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayaharam Sarvalokaikanatham"

By observing Aja Ekadashi with sincerity, devotion, and discipline, one can experience profound spiritual benefits, inner peace, and closeness to Lord Vishnu.