Ekadashi Vrat Katha:

The Ekadashi Vrat Katha, a legend narrated by Lord Krishna to Yudhishthira in the Mahabharata, is a tale that highlights the spiritual significance of Ekadashi fasting. As per the story, once upon a time, there lived a demon named Mura who terrorized both heaven and earth. Even the Devas, celestial beings, were helpless against him, as Mura grew stronger by the day, plunging the world into darkness and chaos.

To save the universe from Mura's tyranny, Lord Vishnu, the protector, intervened. A fierce battle erupted between Vishnu and Mura. Exhausted from the continuous fighting, Lord Vishnu sought rest in a cave. Taking advantage of this, Mura tried to attack him in his slumber. However, in that moment, a radiant, divine energy emanated from Lord Vishnu and took the form of a goddess, named Ekadashi. She fought Mura valiantly, ultimately defeating and slaying him.

When Lord Vishnu awoke, he was overjoyed to see Mura defeated and praised Ekadashi for her bravery. Impressed by her dedication, Lord Vishnu blessed her, declaring that those who observed a fast on Ekadashi Tithi, in devotion to her, would be rid of their sins and receive his divine blessings. Thus, the practice of Ekadashi fasting began, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and leading devotees on a path to Moksha (salvation).

Devotees sing the Ekadashi Aarti with devotion to express their love and reverence for Lord Vishnu on Ekadashi. The following is a traditional aarti dedicated to Lord Vishnu, often recited during Ekadashi Vrat:

Om Jai Jagdish Hare, Swami Jai Jagdish Hare,

Bhakta jano ke sankat, daas jano ke sankat, kshan mein door kare॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Jo dhyave phal paave, dukh binse man ka,

Swami dukh binse man ka, sukh sampatti ghar aave॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Mata pita tum mere, sharan gahu main kiski,

Swami sharan gahu main kiski, tum bin aur na dooja॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Tum Puran Parmaatma, tum Antaryami,

Swami tum Antaryami, Parbrahm Parameshwar॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Tum Karuna ke sagar, tum paalan karta,

Swami tum paalan karta, main sevak tum swami॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Din bandhu dukh harta, tum rakshak mere,

Swami tum rakshak mere, aape raksha karna॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Vishva ka paalanhara, tum sab ke swami,

Swami tum sab ke swami, namra hoke prarthna॥ Om Jai Jagdish Hare॥

Ekadashi is more than just fasting; it is a sacred observance that harmonizes mind, body, and soul with the divine. By fasting and engaging in Ekadashi rituals, individuals can transcend worldly desires, clear past karma, and align themselves with the path toward Moksha. This holy occasion allows devotees to rid themselves of material attachments and progress on a spiritual journey.

Observing Ekadashi Vrat can become a regular ritual for those devoted to spiritual growth, drawing them closer to peace, fulfillment, and ultimately, salvation.