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Mohini Ekadashi

July 30, 2024 Tuesday

Mohini Ekadashi is a sacred Hindu observance that falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) during the Hindu lunar month of Vaishakha, which typically occurs in April or May according to the Gregorian calendar. This auspicious day holds great significance in Hindu tradition and is celebrated with fervor and devotion by millions of devotees across India and other parts of the world.

The legend behind Mohini Ekadashi is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to ancient scriptures, once there was a powerful demon named Murasura who wreaked havoc on both the earthly and celestial realms. Despite numerous attempts by the gods to defeat him, Murasura remained invincible due to a boon he had received from Lord Brahma, granting him immunity from death at the hands of any living being, god, or demon.

Faced with the threat posed by Murasura, the gods sought the guidance of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, to devise a solution. In response, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into the enchanting and alluring form of Mohini, a celestial maiden of unmatched beauty. Disguised as Mohini, Lord Vishnu captivated Murasura with her charm and cunningly convinced him to ask for the secret of his invincibility.

Entranced by Mohini's beauty, Murasura revealed the secret of his invincibility – a divine weapon hidden within his own body. Seizing the opportunity, Mohini swiftly vanquished the demon, thereby liberating the gods and restoring peace to the universe.

Impressed by the devotion and perseverance of the gods, Lord Vishnu declared that whoever observed the fast and performed the rituals of Mohini Ekadashi with sincerity and dedication would be blessed with prosperity, forgiveness of sins, and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Devotees observe a strict fast on Mohini Ekadashi, abstaining from food, water, and worldly pleasures as a mark of devotion to Lord Vishnu. They spend the day engaged in prayers, recitation of sacred texts, and visiting temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The fast is believed to cleanse the body and soul, purifying one's thoughts and actions.

In addition to fasting, devotees also offer various rituals and rituals to Lord Vishnu, including the Tulsi (holy basil) plant, which holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is believed that observing Mohini Ekadashi with utmost devotion can bestow immense blessings upon devotees and fulfill their heartfelt desires.

Mohini Ekadashi serves as a reminder of the victory of good over evil and the power of devotion and righteousness. It inspires devotees to lead a life of virtue, humility, and devotion to the divine, seeking spiritual upliftment and enlightenment.

 

The story of Mohini Ekadashi originates from the ancient Hindu scripture called the "Padma Purana." According to this sacred text, the narrative unfolds as follows:

Once, there was a powerful demon named Vritrasura who performed severe penance to please Lord Vishnu. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Vishnu appeared before him and granted him a boon. Vritrasura asked for immortality, but Lord Vishnu, knowing the consequences of such a request, modified it to make him nearly invincible. He granted Vritrasura the ability to be killed only by a woman, an elephant, or during the time of dawn.

Empowered by this boon, Vritrasura wreaked havoc on the three worlds, threatening the safety and peace of all beings. Faced with this dire situation, the gods sought the guidance of Lord Vishnu, who devised a plan to defeat Vritrasura.

On the auspicious day of Mohini Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu transformed himself into the form of Mohini, an enchanting and irresistible female deity. Mohini's beauty was unparalleled, and her allure captivated not only mortals but also demons.

Disguised as Mohini, Lord Vishnu approached Vritrasura and engaged him in conversation. Enchanted by Mohini's beauty, Vritrasura was completely mesmerized and dropped his guard. Seizing the opportunity, Mohini asked Vritrasura about his vulnerability, and he, being beguiled by her charm, revealed the secret of his invincibility.

With this knowledge, Lord Vishnu, still disguised as Mohini, took swift action. At the break of dawn, when Vritrasura was vulnerable according to the conditions of his boon, Mohini revealed her true form as Lord Vishnu and slew the demon, thus bringing an end to his reign of terror.

The victory of Lord Vishnu over Vritrasura on Mohini Ekadashi is celebrated as a triumph of righteousness over evil and a demonstration of the power of divine intervention. Devotees observe this sacred day by fasting, praying, and offering homage to Lord Vishnu, seeking his blessings for protection, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment.

 

Mohini Ekadashi holds great significance in Hindu tradition and is observed with reverence and devotion by millions of devotees. The significance of Mohini Ekadashi lies in several aspects:

  1. Divine Grace and Protection: Mohini Ekadashi is believed to be a day when devotees can attain the blessings and protection of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Observing the fast and performing rituals on this day is thought to invoke the divine grace of Lord Vishnu, who protects his devotees from harm and guides them on the path of righteousness.

  2. Spiritual Cleansing: Fasting on Mohini Ekadashi is considered a means of purifying the body and mind. By abstaining from food, water, and worldly pleasures, devotees cleanse their physical bodies and control their senses, allowing them to focus more intensely on spiritual pursuits such as prayer, meditation, and introspection. It is believed that this purification process helps to remove impurities and sins, paving the way for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

  3. Forgiveness of Sins: Observing Mohini Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion is believed to result in the forgiveness of past sins. It is said that Lord Vishnu is especially merciful on this day and readily forgives those who repent for their transgressions and seek his blessings. Devotees express remorse for their wrongdoings and resolve to lead a virtuous life, thereby earning divine forgiveness and redemption.

  4. Liberation from the Cycle of Birth and Death: Mohini Ekadashi is regarded as an auspicious occasion for seeking liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Devotees aspire to transcend the material world and attain union with the divine. Through acts of devotion, self-discipline, and surrender to Lord Vishnu, they aim to break free from the cycle of reincarnation and achieve spiritual liberation.

  5. Celebration of Virtue and Righteousness: The legend of Mohini Ekadashi illustrates the victory of virtue (dharma) over vice (adharma) and the triumph of good over evil. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding moral values, practicing righteousness, and resisting temptations that lead one astray. By commemorating this auspicious day, devotees reaffirm their commitment to leading a life of integrity, compassion, and devotion to the divine.

Overall, Mohini Ekadashi is a sacred and auspicious occasion that offers devotees an opportunity to deepen their spiritual connection with Lord Vishnu, seek his blessings, and strive for spiritual upliftment and liberation. It embodies the essence of devotion, purification, and righteousness, inspiring devotees to lead a life of piety, humility, and service to others.