Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi

Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi is a fasting day that is observed by Hare Krishna Devotees. This date falls on the 11th day, ‘ekadashi’ during the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of moon) in the ‘Phalgun’ month of the Vaishnava calendar. Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi is celebrated between Maha Shivratri and the colourful celebrations of Holi. It is observed with full enthusiasm and dedication all across India.

There is no Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi in 2024

Maha Vishnu

Rituals during Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi:

• On the day of Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi observing complete fast is very beneficial and is done in remembrance of Sri Krishna. The vrat stars with sunrise on ekadashi and continues till the dawn if the 12th day. As per the Vedic teaching, eating during pre-dawn hours is not advised on any ekadashi. If for any reason the vrat is accidentally broken, it must be continued for the remaining day.
• The fast of Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi is broken on the ‘dwadashi’ (12th day) by seeing the time mentioned in the Vaishnava calendar. The fast is broken by taking the ‘charnamrit’ (water after washing Krishna’s feet). If partial fast is observed it is broken by eating nuts or fruits.
• On Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi certain species and food can only be eaten like fruits, all nuts, potatoes, milk, coconut, rock salt and black pepper to name a few. Eating rice and all form of grains are not allowed on ekadashi.
• Lord Vishnu is the main deity on Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi. Devotees make special offerings for the lord and chant Vedic mantras and sing devotional songs in His praise.

Significance of Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi:

The importance of Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi is described in the religious scriptures like ‘Brahmanda Purana’ as a form of conversation between King Yudhishthira and Lord Sri Krishna. This day is of great significance for Lord Vishnu followers as it is believed that be observing Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi, devotees attain ‘moksha’ and go straight to ‘Vaikunth’ the eternal heaven. The Vaishnava Amalaki Ekadashi vrat is also undertaken for increasing spiritual development.