Papamochani Ekadashi

Papamochani Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the dark fortnight in Chaitra month (March-April). The name means 'the liberator from sins,' and devotees believe fasting on this day frees them from the reactions of past sinful actions. The story involves King Chitraratha and sage Medhavi, highlighting the power of this sacred fast.

The legend tells of a handsome yaksha prince who was cursed by a sage to live as a chandal for his disrespectful behaviour. For thousands of years he suffered in that degraded form until the sage's disciple advised him to observe Papamochani Ekadashi. By the merit of this fast, the yaksha was freed from his curse and restored to his celestial form, eventually attaining liberation. This story demonstrates that no sin is too great for the grace of Lord Vishnu to erase.

In Odisha, devotees spend the day in meditation and prayer, avoiding all forms of violence and negativity. The fast is broken on Dwadashi with a vegetarian meal after performing Vishnu puja. It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi with sincerity are granted forgiveness for sins committed knowingly or unknowingly, and their souls are purified for the journey toward moksha.