- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 24 Jan 2025 11:17 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Shattila Ekadashi 2025: In Hinduism, Ekadashi Vrat holds great significance. Observed on the 11th day of the lunar cycle, this vrat is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. By fasting on Ekadashi, devotees aim to purify their mind, body and soul, seeking forgiveness for past mistakes and spiritual growth. By observing Ekadashi Vrat with devotion and sincerity, Hindus strive to cultivate self-discipline, detachment and a deeper understanding of their spiritual nature.
The next Ekadashi Vrat, Shattila Ekadashi will be observed by devotees on 25th January 2025. To truly harness the spiritual power of this fast, it's essential to understand the guidelines, types of Ekadashi fasting, and things to do on this day.
The representatives of the Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir, also known as Vrindavan Heritage Tower share insights on the types of Ekadashi fasting, things to do on Ekadashi Vrat and the benefits of keeping this sacred fast below:
Purpose Of Ekadashi Fasting
According to Srila Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON, observing Ekadashi fasting offers profound spiritual benefits. In his spiritual discourses, he has mentioned - ‘’In the Brahma-vaivarta Purāṇa it is said that one who observes fasting on Ekādaśī day is freed from all kinds of reactions to sinful activities and advances in pious life. The basic principle is not just to fast, but to increase one's faith and love for Govinda, or Kṛṣṇa. The real reason for observing fasting on Ekādaśī is to minimise the demands of the body and to engage our time in the service of the Lord by chanting or performing similar service. The best thing to do on fasting days is to remember the pastimes of Govinda and to hear His holy name constantly.’’
Therefore, in essence, Ekadashi fasting provides an opportunity to deepen one's spiritual connection and cultivate a heart filled with love and devotion for the Supreme Lord.
Levels Or Types Of Ekadashi Fasting
There are different levels of Ekadashis, and one may choose depending upon their health and age.
- Complete fasting, where one completely abstains from eating or drinking.
- Consuming only water.
- Consuming only fruits and milk.
- The next option is to have only one non-grain meal with the above food items included, excluding beans and pulses.
- The last option is to have non-grain meals three times a day.
Ekadashi fasting deeply purifies the mind, body, and soul, fostering spiritual growth and inner peace through devotion. (Image Source: Canva)
What To Do During Ekadashi Fasting
- Immerse in Devotional Services: Surrender to the divine on Ekadashi by spending your day in devotional services. Chant the sacred names of Lord Krishna, allowing His presence to fill your heart. Engage in soul-stirring bhajans or participate in sankirtans, letting the collective energy uplift your spirit. As you immerse yourself in devotion, feel your connection with the Lord deepen, bringing peace and tranquillity to your mind and soul.
- Visit a Krishna Temple: Take a spiritual journey on Ekadashi by visiting a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Offer heartfelt prayers to the Deity of the Lord, expressing your gratitude and devotion. As you stand before the sacred altar, feel the divine energy emanating from the Lord's presence. Allow yourself to be humbled and inspired and return home with a renewed sense of purpose and spiritual connection.
- Delve into Spiritual Scriptures: Nourish your soul on Ekadashi by reading sacred scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam. As you delve into these timeless texts, gain a deeper understanding of the Lord's teachings and the secrets of the universe. Allow the wisdom of the scriptures to guide you on your spiritual journey, illuminating your path and nurturing your devotion.
- Absorb Spiritual Discourses: Enrich your spiritual experience on Ekadashi by listening to or watching discourses by senior devotees. Allow their wisdom and insights to penetrate your heart, deepening your understanding of the Lord's teachings. As you absorb the knowledge and realizations shared by these spiritual guides, feel your connection with the divine grow stronger, inspiring you to walk the path of devotion and self-discovery.
Benefits Of Ekadashi Fasting
- Elevate Your Spiritual Journey: Elevate your spiritual enlightenment on Ekadashi by embracing a devotional and disciplined life. This sacred day offers a transformative opportunity for profound growth, increased self-awareness and a greater sense of purpose.
- Attain Inner Peace and Purity: Ekadashi fasting brings peace, internal purity, and external purity. By following its rules and rituals, you'll break free from material desires and experience a deeper connection with your inner self.
- Find Liberation and Eternal Happiness: Regular Ekadashi observance liberates you from sinful reactions, guiding you toward eternal happiness. By dedicating yourself to this practice, you'll cultivate inner peace, spiritual growth, and a profound sense of fulfilment.