Bhouma Ekadashi
OdiaAlso known as: Bhaimi Ekadashi
Bhouma Ekadashi
About Bhouma Ekadashi
Bhouma Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the dark fortnight in Kartik month (October-November). The name is derived from 'Bhumi' (earth). Devotees believe observing this Ekadashi grants the merit of donating a thousand cows and helps in spiritual progress. It has special significance for women.
The legend of Bhouma Ekadashi tells of King Rituparna, a righteous ruler whose kingdom was visited by Sage Kakada. The sage narrated the story of how Lord Krishna himself observed this Ekadashi while residing in Dwaraka. The king followed the sage's instructions and observed the fast with complete devotion, thereby gaining immense spiritual merit and ensuring the prosperity of his kingdom. It is said that even Lord Rama observed this Ekadashi to gain strength before his battle with Ravana.
In Odisha, Bhouma Ekadashi holds special significance for women, who observe the fast for the health and longevity of their husbands and families. Devotees wake before dawn, take a ritual bath, and perform elaborate Vishnu puja with flowers, fruits, and tulsi leaves. The fast is kept without grains, and the devotee breaks it on Dwadashi after offering food to Brahmins. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi grants the merit of donating a thousand cows and brings blessings to the entire family.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Strict fast for spiritual merit and family well-being. Observe a complete fast, spend the day in prayer and chanting, and break the fast on Dwadashi.
- Observe a complete fast during the day.
- Spend the day in prayer and chanting of Vishnu mantras.
- Read or listen to the Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Break the fast on Dwadashi after performing Vishnu puja.
Parana (Breaking Fast) Note: Fast broken on Dwadashi with a vegetarian meal after Vishnu puja.
Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps
- Wake before sunrise and take a ritual bath.
- Offer prayers and flowers to Lord Vishnu.
- Chant Vishnu mantras throughout the day.
- Offer tulsi leaves and prasad to the deity.
- Break the fast on Dwadashi after puja.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bhouma Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the dark fortnight in Kartik month (October-November).
Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).
Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.
Recommended Pages
Comprehensive annual Hindu calendar with tithis and festivals.
Detailed month-wise view of lunar tithis and celestial events.
Marathi Panchang and festive dates for the year.
Gujarati Vikram Samvat calendar and festivals.
Telugu calendar and festive Panchangam details.
Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.