Yogini Ekadashi 2024 Date, Significance, Rituals
Posted on June 30, 2024
Yogini Ekadashi is an important observance in the Hindu tradition, celebrated on the eleventh day of the waning phase of the moon in the month of Ashadha (June-July). This day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and holds significant spiritual and religious importance.
Yogini Ekadashi 2024 Date: July 2, Tuesday.
Ekadashi Tithi Begins: July 01, 10:26 am
Ekadashi Tithi Ends: July 02, 8:42 am
Significance and Legend
The legend of Yogini Ekadashi is recounted in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana. It tells the story of a gardener named Hemamali who served Kubera, the god of wealth. Hemamali neglected his duties and failed to offer daily prayers to Lord Shiva. As a result, he was cursed and afflicted with leprosy. To seek redemption, Hemamali approached the sage Markandeya, who advised him to observe the fast of Yogini Ekadashi. Following the sage’s advice, Hemamali fasted and performed the required rituals with devotion, which led to the removal of his curse and the restoration of his health.
Observance and Rituals
Devotees observe Yogini Ekadashi with great dedication. The day begins with an early morning bath, often in a holy river or at home with the chanting of sacred hymns. The fast is strict and lasts from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi (the twelfth day). Some devotees opt for a complete fast, abstaining from food and water, while others may consume only fruits and milk.
The worship of Lord Vishnu is central to the observance. Devotees visit temples or create an altar at home, where they offer flowers, fruits, and incense to the deity. Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama (a hymn with 1,000 names of Lord Vishnu) and other devotional songs is also a common practice.
Spiritual Benefits
Yogini Ekadashi is believed to provide immense spiritual benefits to those who observe it with sincerity. It is said to cleanse the soul of sins and negative karma, promote physical and mental well-being, and help devotees progress on their spiritual journey. Fasting on this day is also considered to be equivalent to performing several yajnas (sacrificial rituals).
Conclusion
Yogini Ekadashi is a revered occasion that emphasizes devotion, discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual purity. By observing this fast, devotees seek divine blessings, forgiveness for their transgressions, and the grace of Lord Vishnu, leading to a more harmonious and spiritually enriched life.
Categories: Festival Dates & Time
Tags: Hindu festivals 2024 dates
