Mohini Ekadashi
OdiaAlso known as: Mohini
Mohini Ekadashi
About Mohini Ekadashi
Mohini Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in Vaishakh month (April-May). It is named after the Mohini avatar of Lord Vishnu who distributed amrit during Samudra Manthan. The story involves a hunter liberated from sinful life by observing this fast.
The Brahma Purana recounts that during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), the demons (asuras) seized the pot of amrit. Lord Vishnu took the enchanting Mohini form to distract the demons and recover the nectar. This Ekadashi commemorates that divine play of Vishnu as Mohini. The Purana also tells of a hunter named Chandragupta who lived a life of violence but observed Mohini Ekadashi with sincere devotion. Lord Vishnu, appearing in the Mohini form, blessed him with liberation and a place in Vaikuntha.
In Odisha, Mohini Ekadashi is observed with prayers for overcoming illusions (maya) and attaining spiritual clarity. Devotees fast without grains, worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, sandalwood paste, and tulsi leaves, and spend the day in meditation. The story of the Mohini avatar is recited, reminding devotees that the Lord uses any form necessary to restore dharma. Breaking the fast on Dwadashi with a vegetarian meal completes the observance.
Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules
Strict fast seeking to overcome illusions and attain grace. Observe a complete fast, read or listen to the story, 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)
Mohini Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in Vaishakh month (April-May).
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.
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Tamil solar calendar dates and monthly Panchangam.