Kamika Ekadashi 2024 Date, Tithi Time, Rituals, Significance
Posted on July 29, 2024
Kamika Ekadashi, a significant observance in the Hindu calendar, falls during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Shravan (July-August). This sacred day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, and is highly revered for its spiritual benefits and religious importance.
Kamika Ekadashi 2024 Date: July 31, Wednesday
Tithi Time: July 30, 4:45 pm to July 31, 3:56 pm
Significance: Kamika Ekadashi is considered a powerful day for atonement and seeking forgiveness for sins. According to Hindu scriptures, observing a fast on this day is believed to cleanse the devotee of past sins and grant them spiritual merit. It is also said to bestow blessings, prosperity, and protection from evil forces.
The religious texts narrate that Lord Vishnu himself emphasized the importance of Kamika Ekadashi to King Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas. The significance is also highlighted in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, where it is mentioned that even the most grievous sins can be absolved by observing this Ekadashi.
Rituals and Observances: Devotees begin their day with a holy bath and perform various rituals to honor Lord Vishnu. They visit temples, offer prayers, and recite Vishnu Sahasranama (a hymn of a thousand names of Vishnu) and other devotional songs. The fast on Kamika Ekadashi is observed strictly, where many devotees abstain from eating grains, beans, and certain vegetables, and some follow a complete fast, only consuming water.
Here is a typical schedule of the rituals observed on Kamika Ekadashi:
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Morning Rituals: Devotees wake up early, take a purifying bath, and perform the Sankalpa (a vow to observe the fast with dedication).
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Temple Visit: They visit Vishnu temples to offer prayers and seek blessings.
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Puja: At home, devotees perform a detailed puja (worship) to Lord Vishnu, which includes offering flowers, fruits, Tulsi leaves, incense, and lighting a lamp.
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Fasting: The fast is observed throughout the day, with many opting for a Nirjala (waterless) fast.
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Evening Rituals: In the evening, an aarti (a devotional song) is performed, and devotees continue their prayers.
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Bhajan-Kirtan: Many engage in singing bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (religious recitals) dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
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Night Vigil: Some devotees stay awake throughout the night, meditating and chanting the names of Lord Vishnu.