In Sanatan Dharma, Ekadashi is of profound religious importance and is regarded as a highly auspicious day dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. On this sacred occasion, devotees engage in specific rituals and observe a rigorous fast in honor of Lord Vishnu, which is then concluded on the subsequent day known as Dwadasi. Each month features two Ekadashis—one during the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) and one during the Krishna Paksha (the waning phase). Over the course of the year, there are a total of 24 Ekadashis. As September is upon us, let’s explore when Ekadashi occurs this month, including the auspicious timings and the procedures for worship.
Parivartini Ekadashi Auspicious Timing (Shubh Muhurat)
According to the Panchang, the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi for the Bhadrapad month will commence on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 10:30 PM and will conclude on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 8:41 PM. Given the Udaya Tithi, the Parivartini Ekadashi fast will be observed on September 14.
Indira Ekadashi Auspicious Timing (Shubh Muhurat)
According to the Vedic Panchang, the Krishna Paksha Ekadashi of the Ashwin month will begin on Saturday, September 27, 2024, at 1:20 PM and will end on Sunday, September 28, 2024, at 2:49 PM. Following the Panchang, the Indira Ekadashi fast will be observed on September 28.
Parivartini Ekadashi Worship Procedure
On Parivartini Ekadashi, start by rising early, taking a bath at sunrise, and offering water to the Sun. Begin your day by making a resolution to observe the fast. Set up a wooden platform with a yellow or red cloth and place an idol of Lord Vishnu on it. Perform an abhishek (ritual bathing) of the deity using Panchamrit. Proceed with the worship, reaffirming your commitment to the fast. Offer yellow fruits, yellow flowers, as well as incense, lamps, and food to Lord Vishnu. Then, recite the Ekadashi vrat katha (story) and conclude with an Aarti (devotional song) for Lord Vishnu.
Importance of Parivartini Ekadashi Vrat
The Vishnu Dharmottara Purana states that performing the Parivartini Ekadashi vrat with the correct rituals bestows the same merit as performing the Vājapeya Yajna. This observance is believed to cleanse all sins, whether intentional or unintentional. Lord Krishna informed Yudhishthira that observing this Ekadashi and performing the associated rituals yields the rewards of worshiping the three principal deities: Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma. This vrat is renowned for fulfilling all types of desires and wishes.