Indira Ekadashi 2024 Date and Significance: Know the Parana Time, Vrat Katha and Rituals To Worship Lord Vishnu and Seek Forgiveness for Ancestors’ Sins
Falling during Pitru Paksha, Indira Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious days to offer prayers and seek forgiveness for the sins of one’s ancestors and ensure their peaceful journey in the afterlife. This day is entirely dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees observe fast on this day to please the Lord and seek his blessings.
Indira Ekadashi is observed during the Hindu month of Ashwin and holds immense religious and spiritual significance for devotees, especially those following the Vaishnav tradition. Falling during Pitru Paksha, Indira Ekadashi is considered one of the most auspicious days to offer prayers and seek forgiveness for the sins of one’s ancestors and ensure their peaceful journey in the afterlife. This day is entirely dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees observe fast on this day to please the Lord and seek his blessings. Indira Ekadashi 2024 falls on September 28. In this article, we’ll learn about Indira Ekadashi puja shubh muhurat (auspicious timings), vrat katha, significance and rituals.
Indira Ekadashi 2024 Date and Parana Time
According to Drik Panchang, Indira Ekadashi 2024 falls on Saturday, September 28. Parana time will be observed on September 29 from 06:13 AM to 08:36 AM. On Parana day, Dwadashi ends at 04:47 PM. Ekadashi Tithi begins on September 27 at 01:20 PM and ends on September 28 at 02:49 PM.
Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha
According to legends, King Indrasen of Mahishmati Nagar was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu in Satyuga. All the people lived happily in his kingdom, and they did not have any trouble. One day, he was discussing with his ministers inside his court when Devarshi Narada Muni appeared in his court. Sage Narada informed the king that although everyone is happily and peacefully living in his kingdom, his father is compelled to reside at Yamaloka due to his sins. On hearing this, the king asked Narada about his father’s soul's well-being. The Sage stated that he must observe fast on Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month to ward off his father’s sins. Sage Narada said to King Indrasen that a day before Indira Ekadashi, he should take a bath in the river and, on the tenth day, perform Shradh for his ancestors. On Ekadashi, worship Lord Vishnu and then eat fruits in the evening. By observing fast, his father would get virtuous benefits. King Indrasen, along with his brothers, observed Indira Ekadashi fast, and as a result, his father got salvation.
Listen to Indira Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Indira Ekadashi Significance and Rituals
Indira Ekadashi is associated with Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to performing rituals for departed ancestors. According to Hindu scriptures, observing a fast on this day cleanses one’s sins and helps ancestors attain moksha. It is believed that through sincere devotion, one can liberate their ancestors from the cycle of rebirth and guide them toward eternal peace. Observing the fast with utmost dedication, refraining from indulgence, and performing Shradh rituals (ancestral offerings) are believed to grant spiritual benefits to the individual and their forefathers.
On Indira Ekadashi, devotees fast from sunrise on Ekadashi until the next day, consuming only fruits, water, and milk. They offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and seek his blessings. During Pitru Paksha, special prayers and offerings are made of ancestors which include performing tarpan and Shradh.
Indira Ekadashi 2024 provides an opportunity to honour one’s ancestors, seek their blessings, and contribute to their spiritual peace. By observing a fast, devotees cleanse their sins and also uplift their forefathers from the cycle of rebirth. The day reminds us of the eternal bond between the living and the departed, highlighting the significance of remembering and praying for those who came before us.
(Disclaimer: The information provided here is based on beliefs and legends only. Before applying any information in real life, consult the concerned expert.)
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2024 11:22 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).