- By Kashish Rai
- Sat, 28 Sep 2024 11:02 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Indira Ekadashi 2024: Indira Ekadashi, occurring on the 11th day of Ashwin's Krishna Paksha, holds profound spiritual significance, especially during Pitru Paksha. This sacred fast is believed to grant posthumous liberation, making it the holiest of observances. Devotees fast to honour their ancestors, seeking deliverance from suffering and sin. By revering Lord Vishnu, individuals connect with their heritage, fostering spiritual bonds and ultimately achieving redemption and eternal peace, ensuring a tranquil afterlife. This year, the Indira Ekadashi fast is being observed on 28th September 2024.
Indira Ekadashi 2024: Date And Parana Time
- Indira Ekadashi 2024 Date: 28th September 2024
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 1:20 PM, 27th September 2024
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 2:50 PM, 28th September 2024
- Indira Ekadashi Parana Time 2024: 06:13 AM to 10:12 AM, 29th September 2024
Indira Ekadashi 2024: Significance
Indira Ekadashi Vrat is a profoundly significant Hindu observance, promising prosperity and spiritual richness to its observers. By dedicating oneself to this auspicious fast, individuals can cleanse their souls of past transgressions and liberate their ancestors from the consequences of their sins. This vrat offers a poignant opportunity to grant ancestors peace and redemption. Hindu scriptures affirm that observing Indira Ekadashi Vrat yields comparable benefits to performing the sacred Ashwamedha Yagya, underscoring its profound spiritual significance. To honour this sacred day, devotees perform Tarpanam, or ancestral rituals, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu through rigorous fasting. Afternoon rituals, specifically, are considered optimal for paying homage to ancestors.
"Indira Ekadashi ensures ancestors' salvation, liberation from suffering, and peaceful afterlife, fulfilling filial duties during Pitru Paksha devotionally. (Image Source: Canva)
Indira Ekadashi 2024: Vrat Katha
According to the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna shared the story of Indira Ekadashi with Yudhishthira. The legend revolves around King Indrasen of Mahishmati, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, who ruled his kingdom with wisdom and compassion. However, Sage Narada's unexpected visit revealed that King Indrasen's father was suffering in Yamalok due to past misdeeds. The father's plea, conveyed by Sage Narada, urged King Indrasen to observe the Indira Ekadashi fast to liberate him.
Sage Narada guided King Indrasen on the fast's rituals and methodology. The king was advised to dedicate himself to the fast from Dashami Tithi, abstain from indulgences and tamasic food, and worship Lord Vishnu with devotion. On Ekadashi day, King Indrasen was to take a holy dip, worship his ancestors, and observe the fast's rituals diligently. Following Sage Narada's counsel, King Indrasen and his family fervently observed the Indira Ekadashi fast.
The fast yielded fruitful results, as King Indrasen's father ascended to heaven, and the king himself reigned peacefully, ultimately attaining a heavenly abode. Lord Krishna emphasised the significance of Indira Ekadashi, highlighting its potential to absolve ancestral sins and grant spiritual growth.
ALSO READ: Ekadashi September 2024: Dates, Parana Time And Significance Of Parsva And Indira Ekadashi Fasts
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)