On April 19, 2024, Hindus will observe the first Ekadashi of the Hindu New Year, known as Kamada Ekadashi. This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight of the Chaitra month. It holds special significance in Hinduism, believed to grant freedom from sins and fulfill desires. This year, Kamada Ekadashi will be observed on April 19th.
Significance and Auspicious Yogas
Kamada Ekadashi is considered auspicious due to the presence of favorable planetary alignments such as Ravi Yoga, Dhruva Yoga, and Vriddhi Yoga, which are conducive to spiritual practices and positive outcomes.
Timing of Ekadashi and Parana
The Ekadashi Tithi begins on April 18th at 5:31 PM and ends on April 19th at 8:04 PM. The Parana, or breaking of the fast, is recommended between 5:50 AM and 8:26 AM on April 20th.
Offerings to Lord Vishnu
To seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on Kamada Ekadashi, devotees offer specific items as bhog:
- Offer bananas to Lord Vishnu to alleviate financial troubles.
- Offer Panchamrit, a mixture of milk, curd, ghee, honey, and sugar, with Tulsi leaves.
- Offering kheer (rice pudding) on this day is also considered auspicious.
- Present yellow-colored sweets as an offering.
Puja Rituals
To perform the Kamada Ekadashi Puja, follow these rituals:
- Wake up early and take a bath.
- Wear clean clothes and make a sankalp (vow) for the fast.
- Clean the house and set up a wooden platform with a red cloth.
- Install the idol or image of Lord Vishnu on the platform.
- Perform Jalabhishek (ablution) of Lord Vishnu with Panchamrit and Ganga water.
- Offer yellow flowers and sandalwood paste.
- Light ghee lamps and recite the Kamada Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Chant mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Offer bhog and sprinkle Tulsi leaves.
- Conclude the puja with Aarti and seek forgiveness for any mistakes.
Observing Kamada Ekadashi with devotion and performing the rituals sincerely is believed to fulfill desires and bring prosperity to the devotees’ lives.