Indira Ekadashi, a significant event in the Hindu calendar, holds immense religious importance, especially for those who seek to honor their ancestors and attain liberation from past sins. Observed during the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Ashwin (September-October), this Ekadashi is deeply associated with Shradh rituals and fasting.
Indira Ekadashi 2024 Date and Time
- In 2024, Indira Ekadashi will start from 27th September 01.20 PM and finished on the 28 September 02.49 PM But Vrat or fasting will be held on 28th September 2024.. The exact timings for the fast and puja rituals are crucial to follow for proper observance. On Indira Ekadashi, worship Lord Vishnu between 07.42 am and 09.12 am. Ekadashi is worshipped by staying awake in the morning and at night. Breaking of the fast (Parana) should be done on Dvadasi tithi, the next day at [ 06.13 am – 08.36 am (29 September 2024)].
Significance of Indira Ekadashi
The significance of Indira Ekadashi lies in its power to liberate the soul and grant moksha (salvation) to one’s ancestors. As narrated in the Brahmavaivarta Purana, Lord Krishna revealed to Yudhisthira that observing a fast on this day brings great merit and frees ancestors who are trapped in hellish realms(Indira Ekadasi).
Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story)
The vrat katha (story) of Indira Ekadashi revolves around King Indrasena, a pious ruler of Mahishmati Puri. Narada Muni visited the king, bringing a message from his father, who was suffering in the realm of Yamaloka due to his past sins. In order to liberate his father, King Indrasena adhered to Narada’s guidance and observed the strict fast of Indira Ekadashi. Through his devotion, Indrasena’s father was released from Yamaloka and ascended to the spiritual world(Indira Ekadasi).
Ekadashi Vrat Mantra For Lord Vishnu
- ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय ।।
- Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya ।।
- Om Namoh Narayanaya॥
- Mangalam Bhagwan Vishnuh, Mangalam Garunadhwajah।
Mangalam Pundari Kakshah, Mangalaya Tano Harih॥ - Shantakaram Bhujagashayanam Padmanabham Suresham
Vishvadharam Gaganasadrisham Meghavarnam Shubhangam।
Lakshmikantam Kamalanayanam Yogibhirdhyanagamyam
Vande Vishnum Bhavabhayaharam Sarvalokaikanatham॥
Indira Ekadashi 2024 Puja Rituals
The rituals for Indira Ekadashi are as follows:
- Dashami (the day before Ekadashi): Perform shraddha puja for ancestors, take a bath in Holy rivers water, and eat only once.
- Ekadashi: The devotee must cleanse themselves, fast completely (some may choose to consume fruits or water), and worship Lord Vishnu with devotion. Offer oblations to ancestors and perform the ritual of tarpana (offering water to the departed souls).
- Dvadasi (the day after Ekadashi): The fast is broken with a meal that should first be offered to brahmanas (priests) and relatives(Indira Ekadasi).
Shradh Significance and Benefits
Indira Ekadashi is especially important during the Pitru Paksha, as it allows one to perform shraddha rites. This ensures that ancestors attain peace and are freed from their past karmic debts. Performing the shradh rituals on Ekadashi enhances the benefits, as it is believed to provide direct assistance to souls suffering in lower realms(Indira Ekadasi).
The significance of Indira Ekadashi 2024 lies not only in the individual benefits but also in aiding your ancestors’ journey toward liberation. The rituals involve taking a holy bath, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, and making food offerings to ancestors through Shradh. Astral Foresight can provide in-depth guidance on the precise Muhurat and Shradh Vidhi for maximum spiritual benefit.
To follow the traditions, one should consume simple, sattvic food after breaking the fast at the designated Parana time. If you’re curious about the shradh rituals or want to know what to eat during Indira Ekadashi, consulting the experts at Astral Foresight can help you plan your day properly and gain spiritual rewards.
Indira Ekadashi Shradh Rituals 2024
In 2024, those observing Indira Ekadashi should follow traditional shradh rituals:
- Offer pindas (balls of rice and barley) to ancestors.
- Serve with Food to Brahmanas and provide charity in their honor.
- Offer food to cows, Crow also Dog and other animals as part of the ritual.
Conclusion
Indira Ekadashi 2024 offers a unique opportunity to cleanse one’s soul and bring peace to one’s ancestors. Observing the fast with sincerity and following the puja and shradh rituals properly can help ensure liberation for both the devotee and their forefathers.
Following the correct Puja rituals ensures that the fast’s full benefits are received, including spiritual purification and the ability to offer moksha to departed souls. According to Astral Foresight, observing this fast with sincerity helps remove past karma and secure blessings for generations.
FAQ: Indira Ekadashi 2024
- Ekadashi Vrat 2024: इंदिरा एकादशी कब है?
Indira Ekadashi 2024 will be celebrated on 28th September 2024, falling within the Krishna Paksha of the Ashwin month. - Why is it called Indira Ekadashi?
Indira Ekadashi is named after King Indrasen, whose devotion to Lord Vishnu helped his father attain salvation. The fast is believed to liberate ancestors from their past karmic debts and sins, thus providing them with peace and moksha. - What is the date of Ekadashi in September 2024?
Indira Ekadashi will be observed on 28th September 2024. It holds great importance as it takes place during Pitru Paksha, making it one of the most significant Ekadashis of the year. - What to eat during Indira Ekadashi?
Fasting on Indira Ekadashi typically involves consuming simple and sattvic foods like fruits, milk, nuts, and water. Grains, lentils, and certain vegetables are avoided. Astral Foresight recommends following a strict fast or a fruit-based diet, depending on your physical capacity. - What are the benefits of fasting on Indira Ekadashi?
Fasting on Indira Ekadashi is believed to help liberate one’s ancestors, remove past sins, and bring peace and blessings. It also purifies the soul, providing spiritual growth and divine grace. - How do you celebrate Indira Ekadashi?
Indira Ekadashi is celebrated by observing a strict fast, offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, and performing Shradh rituals for ancestors. Devotees also visit temples, recite the Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha, and donate to the needy. - Which God is celebrated on Ekadashi?
Indira Ekadashi puja offers to Lord Vishnu, who is worshiped on this day. Devotees pray to Lord Vishnu for the well-being of their ancestors and seek his blessings for spiritual salvation. - Why is Ekadashi special?
Ekadashi is special because it is considered the most auspicious day for fasting and worshiping Lord Vishnu. Fasting on Ekadashi purifies the soul, grants divine blessings, and helps in attaining moksha. According to Astral Foresight, Ekadashi holds a key place in Hindu rituals as it connects both the individual and their ancestors with the divine.