Jala Krida Ekadashi

Jala Krida Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in Bhadrapada month (August-September). 'Jala Krida' means 'water play,' referring to the tradition of water activities. It is associated with the Pandavas who observed this fast during exile.

The Mahabharata narrates that during their exile, the Pandavas were tormented by demons who poisoned their water sources. On the advice of sage Dhaumya, they observed Jala Krida Ekadashi. Arjuna performed water rituals and offered prayers to Lord Vishnu while bathing in a sacred river. The Lord appeared and destroyed the demons, purifying the waters. This is why devotees on this Ekadashi perform special water offerings -- bathing in rivers, floating flowers on sacred streams, and offering water to the sun -- as acts of devotion and purification.

In Odisha, Jala Krida Ekadashi is observed with special emphasis on water rituals. Devotees take holy dips in rivers and tanks, and in coastal areas, the sea itself is worshipped. The fast is kept without grains, and prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu with water, flowers, and tulsi leaves. The day is also significant for fishermen and coastal communities, who pray for safe voyages and abundant catches. Breaking the fast on Dwadashi with a vegetarian meal completes the observance.