This particular Ekadashi, called Rama Ekadashi, falls on October 28, 2024, according to the Indian lunar calendar, occurring during the Kartik month—a period especially dear to Lord Krishna. It is Kartik Krishna Ekadashi, also known as Sri Rama Ekadashi, is especially auspicious.
Just like every Ekadashi, Sri Rama Ekadashi holds great significance. The name itself suggests that this Ekadashi bestows the blessings of Rama, that is, Goddess Lakshmi. It occurs close to Diwali, and hence, it is named Rama Ekadashi. This Ekadashi grants Rama’s grace, which removes obstacles. Devotees observe this fast to receive blessings for happiness and prosperity from Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu.
Importance of Ekadashi Fasting on Rama Ekadashi
- Ekadashi is considered very dear to Lord Vishnu and Krishna.
- For anyone wishing to deepen devotion to Lord Krishna, regularly observing the Ekadashi fast is an excellent means of disciplining the mind and senses. On Ekadashi, abstaining from food or certain activities helps direct one’s focus toward Krishna, reducing distractions and aiding spiritual development. By engaging in sincere devotion, meditation, and mantra chanting on this day, the mind begins to align naturally with a divine focus, gradually becoming steady and calm.
Timings for Rama Ekadashi Fast in 2024
- Start Date & Time: October 27, 2024, Sunday, at 7:02 AM.
- End Date & Time: October 28, 2024, Monday, at 7:52 AM.
- Observance of fasting should ideally start on October 28, with completion (Parana) on October 29, after the Hari Vasara period (first quarter of the Dwadashi Tithi).
Parana Details
- Parana time on October 29, 2024, is between 6:31 AM and 8:44 AM.
- Parana can be done with sacred items like Bilva leaves or Tulsi leaves, or water and fruits if necessary.
Special Muhurat and Additional Timings
- Brahma Muhurta: October 28, 4:48 AM to 5:39 AM.
- Rahu Kaal: On October 28, from 7:28 AM to 8:52 AM, and on October 29, from 2:30 PM to 3:54 PM. Avoid new or auspicious activities during these periods.
Also Read – When is Diwali 2024 Date? October 31st or November 1st? Know Exact Diwali Date and Lakshmi Puja Rituals
Offerings
- Worship Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Lord Krishna with flowers, incense, and other offerings, ideally yellow flowers and sandalwood.
- Donate food, clothes, cows, gold, and other items on this day, as they hold special significance for Ekadashi.
Guidelines for Observing the Fast
- Follow a pure, sattvic diet on the day prior to Ekadashi (Dashami).
- On Ekadashi morning, bathe in the Ganges or add Ganga water to your bath at home, wear clean clothes, and offer prayers.
- Devotees unable to fast fully may have one meal of fruit.
- Chant mantras like “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” or “Shri Krishna Govinda Hare Murari” throughout the day, along with Vishnu Sahasranama or the Purusha Sukta.
Completion and Post-Fasting Rituals
- On Dwadashi (the day after Ekadashi), take a bath, perform prayers, and feed Brahmins as a concluding act of the fast. Offer charity and donations, which are believed to remove all forms of sin.
Conclusion
Following these practices during Rama Ekadashi is believed to grant blessings similar to Kamadhenu (wish-fulfilling cow) and Chintamani (wish-fulfilling jewel), and brings spiritual merit and divine blessings.