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Apara Ekadashi is a Hindu festival which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This significant festival is considered very auspicious among the 24 Ekadashi. According to the Vedic calendar, fasting is done every month on Ekadashi Tithi of Krishna and Shukla Paksha.
This Ekadashi is observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) of the Hindu month of Vaishakha. This festival falls every year in April or May. This year, Apara Ekadashi is observed on Friday, May 23.
About Apara Ekadashi
The word "Apara" means "matchless," signifying the unparalleled spiritual benefits of observing this Ekadashi. The Sanskrit word Apara also means limitless. On this day, devotees worship Lord Vishnu and goddess Lakshmi to seek their blessing. The day is observed by fasting from the Sunrise of Ekadashi Tithi to sunset the following day. It is believed that fasting on the Ekadashi is an important ritual of this day.
Apara Ekadashi Tithi and Muhurat
Ekadashi Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Vaishakh month begins on Friday, May 23, at 01:12 AM, and the tithi will end at 10:29 PM on the same day, as per Drik Panchang. Apara Ekadashi is considered a highly auspicious day, and it is believed to help overcome bad karma and achieve longevity, good health, and prosperity.
Puja Vidhi of Apara Ekadashi
On this auspicious day, devotees should wake up early and take a bath before Sunrise. Clean your home with Gangajal and wear neat and clean clothes. It is best to visit the Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi temple on this day to seek blessings.
But if you can't visit the temple, you can worship the deity at home. Prepare an asan and put a yellow cloth on it. Place the idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Offer yellow flowers, panchamrit, bhog (kheer, fruits, and dry fruits) and recite Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Stotra, Geeta, and finally perform Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi Aarti.
