Mohini Ekadashi Vrat

Mohini Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed in the month of Vaishakha during the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha). While this ritual falls in the Vaishakha month in the calendars of North India and other regions, the same ritual occurs in Chithirai month in the Tamilian calendar, in Edava month in the Malayalam calendar and in Jyeshto mash in Bengali calendar. Fasting on Mohini Ekadashi is believed to eliminate all sins and help in leading a happy and prosperous life. Also, a person undergoing sadness is effectively able to overcome this sickness. Devotees believe that observing a fast on Mohini Ekadashi is more fruitful than performing ritual baths in the holy rivers or performing sacrifices. Find out about the legend behind observing Mohini Ekadashi vrat and the method of performing the same.

How To Observe Mohini Ekadashi Vrat
Dhanapala was a well-known and religious merchant residing in the city of Bhadravati on the banks of River Saraswati. He was a loyal follower of Lord Vishnu and hence, was popular for his charity and spiritual activities. However, his son, Dhrstabuddhi was exactly the reverse of his father. Thus, he was thrown out of the house due to bad influences and associations. After expending the last amount of wealth remaining with him, Dhrstabuddhi indulged in robbery in order to quench himself. Unfortunately, he was caught by the guards but was asked to instantly leave the kingdom bearing the reputation of his father.

With no hopes, he left for the forests. Here, he took up to killing animals to satiate his starvation. He continues to live with this lifestyle for years but was often reminded about his childhood and past ill deeds. One day, he arrives at the ashram of Sage Kaundinya where the holy atmosphere touched his heart. On his way from the bath, a few drops of water fell from the Sage on Dhrstabuddhi and hence, he instantly broke down into tears. He recited the whole story and enquired about annulling his sins and guilt. The sage advised him to observe the Mohini Ekadashi vrat that occurs in the month of Vaishakha.

As directed, Dhrstabuddhi observed the fast and thus, was able to wash away all his sins. Thereafter, he turned into a true and loyal Vishnu devotee. Eventually, he started serving poor and ill people and finally, he was successful in attaining Moksha, or salvation. All rules pertaining to Ekadashi fasting are followed on Mohini Ekadashi vrat as well. All devotees observing this fast should avoid consuming rice and food items made from grains.