04 December 2024
Mokshada Ekadashi 2024: Significance, Rituals, and Auspicious Date and Timings
Mokshada Ekadashi is a revered Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Margashirsha month. The name Mokshada signifies liberation, making this Ekadashi spiritually significant for seeking freedom from worldly attachments and sins. It is believed that observing this sacred day brings peace, prosperity, and salvation.
When is Mokshada Ekadashi 2024? Date and time
It will be observed on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. This day marks an opportunity for devotees to worship Lord Vishnu, perform sacred rituals, and engage in acts of donation, embodying the spirit of selflessness and devotion.
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Ekadashi Begins | December 11, 2024 3:43 AM |
| Ekadashi Ends | December 12, 2024 1:09 AM |
| Parana Time | December 12, 2024 7:03 AM – 9:10 AM |
Note: Parana is the ritual of ending the fast and should be observed during the specified period.
Religious Significance of Mokshada Ekadashi
This is celebrated to honor Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. According to religious texts, observing this Ekadashi with devotion can:
- Relieve individuals from the cycle of rebirth.
- Help ancestors attain salvation (moksha).
- Atone for sins committed in this life and past lives.
On this day, devotees fast, pray, and perform charitable acts to earn divine blessings and spiritual growth.
Shloka:
“यथा कन्दुकपातेन पतितेन पतत्यधः।
तथा पापकृतां पापं स्वयं कर्तृ विनश्यति।।”
This shloka highlights that the sins of a devoted person are destroyed just as a fallen ball rebounds upward when struck.
Vrat Katha
According to ancient scriptures, there lived a pious king named Vaikhanasa. One night, he dreamt of his deceased father suffering in the afterlife. Troubled by this vision, he sought guidance from learned sages, who advised him to observe the Mokshada Ekadashi vrat and perform rituals for his father’s soul.
The king observed the fast with utmost devotion, worshipped Lord Vishnu, and made generous donations. Pleased by his sincere efforts, Lord Vishnu blessed the king, liberating his father from suffering and granting him eternal peace.
This story emphasizes the spiritual power in freeing souls and fulfilling one’s duties toward ancestors.
Rituals During Mokshada Ekadashi
- Fasting:
- Devotees observe a complete or partial fast, consuming only sattvic food.
- Some choose to abstain from food and water entirely.
- Prayers and Pujas:
- Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu with tulsi leaves, flowers, and lamps.
- Chant mantras like the Vishnu Sahasranama and read the Bhagavad Gita.
- Charity and Donations:
- Acts of donation hold special significance, helping the needy while enhancing the spiritual benefits for the giver.
- Meditation and Reflection:
- Devotees meditate and reflect on their spiritual journey, seeking forgiveness and divine guidance.
Importance of Donations on Mokshada Ekadashi
Charity is an integral part of Mokshada Ekadashi. Donating to the underprivileged not only helps them but also fulfills spiritual obligations.
Shloka:
“दानेन पाणिर्नलिना भविष्यति।”
(Through charity, hands become lotus-like, pure, and divine.)
Narayan Seva Sansthan, dedicated to serving differently-abled and underprivileged individuals, provides a platform to make meaningful contributions. Donations to the organization support:
- Medical Care: Free surgeries and artificial limbs for differently-abled individuals.
- Education: Scholarships and skill development for underprivileged children.
- Livelihood: Rehabilitation programs empower individuals to lead self-sufficient lives.
Engaging in acts of charity on Mokshada Ekadashi aligns with the spirit of the day, fostering prosperity and well-being for all.
Celebrate Mokshada Ekadashi 2024 by embracing its spiritual essence and contributing to the welfare of others. Support Narayan Seva Sansthan to make a difference in the lives of those in need while seeking divine blessings for yourself and your loved ones.
FAQs
Q. What is Mokshada Ekadashi?
A. Mokshada Ekadashi is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu, observed for seeking liberation from sins and the cycle of rebirth.
Q. When is Mokshada Ekadashi in 2024?
A. Mokshada Ekadashi will be celebrated on December 15, 2024.
Q. What rituals are observed on Mokshada Ekadashi?
A. Rituals include fasting, prayers, chanting hymns, reading the Bhagavad Gita, and performing acts of charity.
Q. Why is donating to Mokshada Ekadashi significant?
A. Donations on this day are believed to bring spiritual merit, cleanse past sins, and create positive karma.
Q. How can I contribute meaningfully to Mokshada Ekadashi?
A. You can donate to trusted organizations like Narayan Seva Sansthan, which supports life-changing initiatives for the needy.
