Vijaya Ekadashi - 6 Mar 2024
Story, Spiritual Significance, Fasting Schedule, and Parana Time
Vijaya Ekadashi 6 Mar 2024 : Date and Time
Phalguna, Krishna Paksh Ekadashi
Ekadashi tithi begins : Mar 6, 2024 – 1:00 AM (IST)
Ekadashi tithi ends : Mar 6, 2024 – 10:43 PM (IST)
Parana Time : Mar 7, 2024 – 6:35 AM – 8:51 AM (IST)
Dwadashi ending time : Mar 7, 2024 – 7:49 PM (IST)
Vijaya Ekadashi Story (Katha)
Yudhishthira asked, “Vasudeva, what is the name of the Ekadashi that falls in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Phalguna? Please tell me.”
Brahmaji said, “Narada, listen to a sublime story that removes sins. This vrata (fast) is very ancient, sacred, and sin-destroying. The Ekadashi named ‘Vijaya’ grants victory to kings, without a doubt. In ancient times, Lord Shri Ramachandra went to the forest for fourteen years and lived in Panchavati with Sita and Lakshmana. During their stay, the restless Ravana abducted Sita, the ascetic wife of the victorious Shri Rama. This caused great distress to Shri Rama, who then began to search the forest for Sita.
After traveling some distance, he encountered the dying Jatayu. Following this, he killed the demon Kabandha in the forest. He then formed a friendship with Sugriva, and soon, an army of monkeys was gathered for Shri Rama. Hanuman ventured into the gardens of Lanka, found Sita, and conveyed Shri Rama’s ring to her, performing a great feat. After returning, Hanuman met Shri Rama and reported all the news of Lanka.
Hearing Hanuman’s report, Shri Rama sought Sugriva’s permission to march towards Lanka. Reaching the seashore, he asked Lakshmana, ‘Sumitranandan, by what virtue can we cross this deep and terrifying sea filled with dangerous aquatic creatures? I do not see any way to cross it easily.'”
Lakshmana said, “Maharaja, you are the Adidev and Purushottam, the supreme being and ancient primeval man. What can be hidden from you? Nearby, within this island, lives the sage Bakadalbhya. His ashram is half a yojana from here. Raghunandan, go to that ancient sage and ask him for a solution.”
Hearing this excellent advice from Lakshmana, Shri Ramachandra went to meet the great sage Bakadalbhya. Upon arrival, he bowed his head in reverence to the sage. The sage recognized at once that this was Purushottam Shri Ram, who had descended in human form for some divine reason. The great sage was overjoyed by his arrival. He asked, “Shri Ram, what brings you here?”
Shri Ram said, “Brahman, with your blessings, I have arrived at the shore of the ocean with my army to conquer Lanka and its demons. O Sage, please tell me a way to cross the ocean. Kindly have mercy on me.”
Bakadalbhya said, “Shri Ram, by observing the fast of ‘Vijaya’ Ekadashi, which falls in the Krishna Paksha of Phalguna, you will surely achieve victory. You will certainly cross the ocean with your army of monkeys. Now, listen to the fruitful method of this fast, O King. On the day of Dashami, establish a pot, which can be made of gold, silver, copper, or clay. Fill this pot with water and place leaves inside it. On top of it, establish a golden idol of Lord Narayana. Then, on the morning of Ekadashi, take a bath and firmly place the pot again. Perform a special worship using a garland, sandalwood paste, betel nut, and coconut. Place seven types of grains and barley on top of the pot. Perform worship with sandalwood paste, incense, lamp, and various offerings. Spend the entire day in front of the pot, engaging in noble discussions and stories, and stay awake during the night. To achieve the success of the continuous fast, light a ghee lamp. Then, on the morning of Dwadashi, take the pot to a water body—like a river, waterfall, or pond—place it there, and perform a formal worship. Donate the pot, along with the idol, to a knowledgeable Brahmin. O King, you should also give other grand donations with the pot. Shri Ram, you and your commanders should observe the ‘Vijaya’ Ekadashi fast in this way. This will ensure your victory.”
By observing the Vijaya Ekadashi fast with devotion and following the rituals as described, one can seek blessings for success and victory in their endeavors. This ancient and pious fast is said to remove sins and grant both material and spiritual benefits, leading to triumph over challenges.
Brahmaji says, “Narada, hearing this, Shri Ramachandra observed the ‘Vijaya’ Ekadashi fast as per the sage’s instructions. By performing this fast, Shri Ramachandra emerged victorious. He defeated Ravana in battle, conquered Lanka, and was reunited with Sita. My son, those who observe this fast in this manner achieve victory in this world, and their afterlife remains eternal. Lord Krishna says, ‘Yudhishthira, this is why one should observe the ‘Vijaya’ fast. Reading and listening to this account grants the same merit as performing a Vajapeya Yajna.'”
Spiritual Significance of Vijaya Ekadashi
Vijaya Ekadashi, observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Phalguna, holds profound spiritual significance. This sacred day is renowned for its ability to grant victory and success in all endeavors. The word “Vijaya” itself means victory, and fasting on this day is believed to help devotees overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The observance of Vijaya Ekadashi is deeply rooted in ancient scriptures and is associated with numerous mythological tales, particularly the epic of Lord Rama.
According to the legends, when Lord Rama was preparing to cross the ocean to rescue Sita from the clutches of the demon king Ravana, he was advised by Sage Bakadalbhya to observe the Vijaya Ekadashi fast. By following the sage’s instructions meticulously, Lord Rama performed the fast with utmost devotion. The powerful effects of this fast bestowed divine blessings upon him, enabling him to construct a bridge across the ocean, defeat Ravana, and successfully rescue Sita. This narrative underscores the potent spiritual energy and miraculous benefits associated with Vijaya Ekadashi.
Fasting on Vijaya Ekadashi is believed to cleanse one’s soul of past sins and ensure victory over life’s challenges. Devotees engage in a day-long fast, abstaining from grains and certain foods, while dedicating themselves to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Rituals include offering prayers, chanting mantras, and reading sacred texts to honor the deity. The fast concludes on the next day, Dwadashi, with various rituals and charity, symbolizing the devotee’s gratitude and reverence.
The spiritual significance of Vijaya Ekadashi extends beyond mere rituals. It is a time for introspection, self-discipline, and strengthening one’s spiritual resolve. Observing this Ekadashi with faith and devotion not only promises victory in worldly affairs but also aids in attaining moksha (liberation). Thus, Vijaya Ekadashi is a revered occasion that inspires devotees to seek divine guidance and achieve triumph in their spiritual and material pursuits.
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