Shattila Ekadashi 2025 Date, Tithi Time, Significance, Rituals
Posted on January 22, 2025
Shattila Ekadashi is an auspicious day observed by Hindus, dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu. This significant occasion falls on the Ekadashi tithi (11th day) during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Magha (January-February). The name “Shattila” is derived from two words: “Shat”, meaning six, and “Tila”, meaning sesame seeds, which play a crucial role in the day’s rituals.
Shattila Ekadashi 2025 Date: Saturday, January 25.
Ekadashi Tithi Begins – 07:25 PM on Jan 24, 2025.
Ekadashi Tithi Ends – 08:31 PM on Jan 25, 2025.
Significance of Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi is highly revered as it emphasizes the virtues of charity, devotion, and self-restraint. The day underscores the importance of helping those in need and purifying the mind and body through fasting and spiritual practices. Observing Shattila Ekadashi is believed to cleanse one’s sins and pave the way for attaining moksha (liberation).
Rituals and Practices
- Fasting: Devotees observe a day-long fast, consuming only sattvic food or observing a nirjala vrat (without water). The fast is broken the next day after offering prayers.
- Sesame Seeds Usage: Sesame seeds are used in six ways during Shattila Ekadashi:
- Bathing with water mixed with sesame seeds.
- Applying sesame paste on the body.
- Consuming sesame seeds.
- Offering sesame seeds in charity.
- Performing havan (sacred fire rituals) with sesame.
- Preparing food items using sesame seeds.
- Charity: Devotees donate sesame seeds, food, clothes, and other essentials to the poor, as acts of charity hold special significance on this day.
Spiritual Benefits
Shattila Ekadashi encourages selflessness and compassion by urging people to help others in need. It is believed that observing the fast with devotion helps in removing past karmic debts and enhances spiritual growth. The emphasis on sesame seeds, known for their purifying properties, symbolizes inner and outer cleansing.
Mythological Importance
According to a story from the Padma Purana, a devotee of Lord Vishnu neglected to offer food or alms despite her immense devotion. As a result, she was born into poverty in her next life. However, by observing Shattila Ekadashi with sincerity, she attained prosperity and liberation. This tale highlights the importance of balance between devotion and charitable actions.
Conclusion
Shattila Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting but a celebration of generosity, spirituality, and self-purification. By observing its rituals with faith and dedication, devotees seek to align their lives with the principles of dharma and prepare for spiritual elevation.