- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:23 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Amalaki Ekadashi 2024: The auspicious vrat of Amalaki Ekadashi is being observed today on 20th March 2024. On this day, people observe a strict fast and abstain from consuming Tamasic food items and even grains. Additionally, it is considered highly inauspicious to consume rice on this day. However, the Jagannath Puri temple in Odisha doesn’t follow this rule. It is believed that Shri Jagannath Puri Dham is the only temple where rice is consumed on Ekadashi as Mahaprasad.
At this temple, the day of Ekadashi is observed as 'Ulti Ekadashi' (opposite Ekadashi). Let us know the legend behind this custom.
As per traditional beliefs, it is strictly forbidden to consume rice on Ekadashi. (Image Source: Canva)
Amalaki Ekadashi 2024: Why Rice Is Consumed At Jagannath Puri Temple?
People not only consume rice on the day of Ekadashi at Shri Jagannath Puri Dham, but they also consume it on the day of other fasts as well.
According to a legend, once Brahma Dev arrived at Jagannath Puri, he was eager to consume Lord Jagannath's Maha Prasad, but it was finished at that point. A dog was licking a few rice grains that were wrapped up in a single leaf. Brahma Dev was so engrossed by devotion that he began eating the remaining rice while sitting with that dog out of his desire to consume the Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath. It is believed that this incident happened on Ekadashi.
Upon witnessing Brahma Dev's devotion, Lord Jagannath appeared in front of him. Upon witnessing Brahma Dev devouring his Mahaprasad's rice with the dog without any hesitation, Lord Jagannath declared that the Ekadashi rule would no longer apply to his Mahaprasad.
From that point on, no fast or date has any bearing on the Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath, regardless of whether it is Ekadashi at Jagannath Puri or any other day.
Amakali Ekadashi 2024: Why Rice Is Generally Not Consumed On Ekadashi?
Regarding the Ekadashi day, it is customary to refrain from consuming, regardless of whether one is following the Ekadashi fast. This is based on the belief that the person who consumes rice on the day of Ekadashi will be reincarnated as an insect in his/her afterlife. It is also believed that consuming rice on Ekadashi is equivalent to consuming insects and worms.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)