Apara Ekadashi fast is observed on the ‘ekadashi’ tithi (11th day) of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of ‘Jyeshtha’. This year Apara Ekadashi falls on May 23. It is believed that a person get rid of all sins by observing this fast. This ekadashi is also popularly known as Achla Ekadashi. The Apara Ekadashi is dedicated to worshiping Lord Vishnu.
Apara Ekadashi Tithi and Muhurat (Date and Time)
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: May 23, 1:12 am
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: May 23, 10:29 pm
Parana Time: May 24, 5:26 am - 8:11 am
On Parana Day Dwadashi End Time: 7.20 pm
Apara Ekadashi Puja Vidhi
1. Wake up in Brahma Muhurta, take a bath and wear yellow-colored clothes.
2. Take a vow to fast while meditating on Lord Vishnu.
3. Clean the place of worship. Spread a yellow cloth on a stool and place an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu on it.
4. Perform Abhishek of Lord Vishnu with Gangajal.
5. Offer yellow flowers, fruits, akshat, sandalwood, incense and lamps (diya) to Lord Vishnu.
6. Offer Tulsi leaves alongwth satvik food to Lord Vishnu.
7. Chant the mantras of Lord Vishnu.
8. Listen or read the Apara Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
9. Perform Aarti of Lord Vishnu.
10. Donate food, clothes or money to the poor and needy.
11. If possible, sing bhajans and kirtans of Lord Vishnu at night.
12. Break the fast the next day i.e. on Dwadashi Tithi. Eat Tulsi leaves at the time of Paran.
Ekadashi Prasad (Things to offer Lord Vishnu on Apara Ekadashi)
- Seasonal fruits
- Jaggery
- Bengal gram lentil
- Muskmelon
- Cucumber
- Sweets
Ekadashi Mantras
- Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay
- Om Narayanaya Vidmahe. Vasudevay Dhimahi. Tanno Vishnu Prachodayata
- Om Vishnave Namah
- Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare
- Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murare. O Nath Narayan Vasudevay
- Shriman Narayan Narayan Hari Hari.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.