Aja Ekadashi 2025: Date, Rituals, and Significance

Date and Timings

Aja Ekadashi in 2025 will be observed on August 19. The Ekadashi Tithi begins on August 18 at 5:22 PM and ends on August 19 at 3:32 PM. The Parana Time (time to break the fast) is on August 20, from 5:53 AM to 8:29 AM.

Significance

Aja Ekadashi holds immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Vishnu. Observing this fast is believed to cleanse sins, bring prosperity, and pave the way for moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). The day is particularly associated with the legendary King Harishchandra, whose adherence to truth and righteousness, coupled with the observance of this vrat, led to his redemption and divine blessings.

Rituals

The rituals of Aja Ekadashi are simple yet profound, focusing on devotion and discipline:

1. Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some opt for a complete fast without water (Nirjala), while others consume fruits, milk, or water.
2. Worship: Begin the day with a bath and set up an altar with an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu. Offer tulsi leaves, flowers, and fruits. Chant Vishnu mantras, such as the Vishnu Sahasranama or “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.”
3. Reading Scriptures: Recite or listen to the story of Aja Ekadashi from the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, which narrates its significance.
4. Charity: Offer food, clothes, or donations to the needy or Brahmins.
5. Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken during the Parana time on Dwadashi (August 20, 5:53 AM–8:29 AM) with sattvic food after offering prayers.

The Devotional Story of Aja Ekadashi

The story of Aja Ekadashi, as described in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, is a tale of truth, perseverance, and divine grace, centered around the legendary King Harishchandra.

Long ago, in the Treta Yuga, King Harishchandra ruled the kingdom of Ayodhya. Renowned for his unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness, he was a just and beloved king. However, his life was tested by a series of divine trials orchestrated by Sage Vishwamitra to prove his integrity.

Vishwamitra, in a bid to challenge Harishchandra’s resolve, demanded his entire kingdom. True to his word, Harishchandra relinquished his throne without hesitation. Yet, the sage’s tests continued. Harishchandra, along with his wife, Queen Taramati, and their young son, Rohitashva, were forced to leave Ayodhya and live in poverty.

In the holy city of Kashi, the royal family faced immense hardships. To survive, Harishchandra took up work at a cremation ground, performing menial tasks, while Taramati and Rohitashva were sold into servitude. Despite these trials, Harishchandra never wavered from his commitment to truth.

Tragedy struck when Rohitashva died from a snakebite, and Taramati, heartbroken, brought his body to the cremation ground where Harishchandra worked. Unaware that the boy was his own son, Harishchandra, bound by duty, demanded payment for the cremation, as was the custom. Taramati, penniless and grieving, had nothing to offer. Yet, Harishchandra’s adherence to his principles remained unshaken.

Moved by his unyielding devotion to truth, the gods, led by Lord Vishnu, appeared before Harishchandra. They revealed that his trials were a divine test, and his steadfastness had earned him immense merit. Lord Vishnu blessed Harishchandra, restoring his son to life, reuniting his family, and reinstating his kingdom. The gods also proclaimed that Harishchandra’s observance of Aja Ekadashi had purified his soul and granted him liberation.

Sage Gautama, narrating this story to Yudhishthira in the Mahabharata, explained that observing Aja Ekadashi with devotion erases sins, fulfills desires, and leads to moksha. The fast is equivalent to performing grand yajnas and is accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

Conclusion

Aja Ekadashi is a day of spiritual renewal, reminding devotees of the power of truth, faith, and devotion to Lord Vishnu. By observing the fast and performing the rituals, one can seek divine blessings for prosperity, peace, and liberation. The story of King Harishchandra serves as an eternal inspiration, highlighting the triumph of righteousness even in the face of adversity.

For more details on Aja Ekadashi and other Hindu festivals, visit www.hindutone.com.

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