Mokshada Ekadashi is considered one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar and is, therefore, being celebrated with immense devotion and spiritual fervor. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this day holds a tremendous religious significance as it is believed to offer moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. In the year 2024, Mokshada Ekadashi falls on December 11 and coincides with the Ekadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Margashirsha.
Mokshada Ekadashi 2024: Date and Time
Mokshada Ekadashi date and time must be understood as a part of following the fasting ritual and traditions precisely.
Ekadashi Start Time: 03:42 AM on 11-12 December 2024
Ekadashi Ends at: 01:09 AM on 12 December 2024
Parana Time (Breaking the Fast): December 12, 2024, from 07:04 AM to 09:08 AM
Dwadashi End Moment: December 12, 2024, at 10:26 PM
The Parana, or breaking of the fast, is an essential part of the Ekadashi observance. Traditionally it is done during the sanctioned Parana time on Dwadashi (the twelfth day of the lunar fortnight). Observing the fast religiously and breaking it at the right time has spiritual importance.
Significance of Mokshada Ekadashi
Ekadashi is that day when one is devoted and fasts while praying for Lord Vishnu. There are Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha, with Ekadashi being the eleventh day of both. This day of mokshada ekadashi is intended to gain liberation from the birth-death cycle or moksha.
The term “Mokshada” means “giver of salvation.” It is believed that observing a fast on this day cleanses the devotee of all past misdeeds and paves the way for spiritual ascension to Vaikuntha Dham, the eternal abode of Lord Vishnu.
Apart from moksha, devotees worshiping Lord Vishnu on Mokshada Ekadashi are blessed with:
Serenity and Peace: Devotion to Shri Hari (Lord Vishnu) is said to bring tranquility to the mind and soul.
Prosperity: Worshiping Vishnu ensures material well-being and spiritual growth.
Fulfillment of Wishes: Lord Vishnu is known as the granter of wishes, bestowing his devotees with their heart’s desires.
The spiritual importance of Mokshada Ekadashi lies in its power to purify the devotee’s soul and free them from the burden of karma, which helps in their spiritual journey.
Puja Rituals for Mokshada Ekadashi
The worship of Mokshada Ekadashi is done strictly by following all the traditional rituals and practices. The devotees follow these steps to ensure a fulfilling spiritual experience:
1. Preparing for the Fast on Mokshada Ekadashi
On Dashami the day before Ekadashi devotees take some simple meal without onion, garlic, and other tamasic things.
Cleaning house : Proper cleaning of house to set a sacred ambiance for Puja
2. Vrata: Many observe complete Satta (no food and no water), while some take Prayaas (only fruits and milk).
It is not only a physical but also mental fasting; devotees abstain from the wicked thoughts, wrath, and falsehood.
3. Performance of Vishnu Puja
Early morning of Ekadashi devotees take holy bath, wears fresh or new attire.
Lord Vishnu’s altar is created with the icon or photo of the deity decorated with flowers, incense, and lamps.
Devotees chant Vishnu mantras like the Vishnu Sahasranama and recite prayers or hymns about the Lord.
4. Visiting of temples
Most devotees go to temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu to offer prayers for good fortune. Temples seem to reverberate with the sounds of devotional songs and special pujas are performed on this particular day.
5. Doing acts of charity
Charity is an integral part of Ekadashi observance. Devotees donate food, clothes, and other necessities to the underprivileged as a way of expressing gratitude and earning spiritual merit.
6. Breaking the Fast (Parana)
The fast is broken on Dwadashi (the twelfth day) during the prescribed Parana time by consuming a simple satvik meal.
Mythological Importance of Mokshada Ekadashi
The significance of Mokshada Ekadashi is found in ancient Hindu scriptures. One popular legend narrates how a king named Vaikhanasa, on the advice of learned sages, observed a strict fast on Mokshada Ekadashi to liberate his deceased father from the torments of hell. Pleased with the king’s devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed his father with moksha.
This story emphasizes the power of Mokshada Ekadashi in granting salvation not only to the observer but also to their loved ones. It underlines the importance of devotion, penance, and faith in Lord Vishnu’s grace.
Why Mokshada Ekadashi Matters Today
In today’s fast-paced world, Mokshada Ekadashi serves as a reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the divine. By observing this sacred day, devotees can:
Seek inner peace amid worldly chaos.
Purify their thoughts and actions.
Reaffirm their faith in the principles of dharma.
It is a day to immerse oneself in the spiritual aura of Lord Vishnu, realigning life with the higher purpose of achieving moksha.
Conclusion
Mokshada Ekadashi is an opportunity far beyond a one-day fasting. It gives devotion, discipline, and the much-required self-purification that cultivates the deeper elements within a person. Observance of Mokshada Ekadashi with dedication draws the devotees closer to Lord Vishnu and paves a pathway towards liberation from birth and rebirth.
It’s December 11, 2024, and you’re going to celebrate Mokshada Ekadashi. So today is the day to seek Shri Hari’s blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual elevation while offering prayers and performing charitable deeds. May the grace of Lord Vishnu help you on the path to salvation.