HOW TO OFFER WORSHIP AND PRAYERS ON EKADASI?
How to observe Ekadashi and how to offer worship and prayers on ekadasi was narrated to Arjuna by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyottara Purana.
(1) FROM WHICH EKADASI THE FAST CAN BE STARTED?
Lord Krishna advices Arjuna to begin the Ekadasi fasting in the autumn season with Utpanna or Uttpatti Ekadasi occurring during the waning phase of the moon in November – December. (However, if one wishes, he can start from any Ekadasi)
(2) 24 HOURS GUIDELINES OF EKADASI FASTING METHOD
Ekadasi is the name of the Goddess that arose from Lord Vishnu to defeat Demon Mura. Happy with her divine act, Lord Vishnu blessed her that anyone who observes Ekadasi fast will be freed of their sins and will attain Moksha.
Some people only take a single meal on the Dasami day, the day before Ekadasi.
THINGS NEEDED FOR EKADASI POOJA & PRAYER
A picture or photo or idol of Lord Vishnu/ Krishna.
Fruits
Tulsi leaves (The tulsi leaves should not be picked on the day but on the previous day)
Yellow bananas.
And other normal puja items
OBSERVANCE
Wake up early in the morning. Take bath and offer prayers before sun rise.
Perform a simple puja to Lord Vishnu/ Krishna at home by lighting a lamp and offering fruits and Tulsi leaves.
Pray or meditate for few minutes. Chant a few rounds in the morning.
If there is a Vishnu/ Krishna temple nearby visit the temple and witness morning pujas and rituals.
Fast or Upavas on the day is the main observance.
EKADASI FASTING
Fasting is for 24 hours starting from 05.00 AM, ie, well before sun rise. It is believed that a partial or total abstinence from food on Ekadasi is rewarded with bliss.
If you have any health problem or are taking medicines, please consult your doctor before deciding on fasting. You can also opt for a partial fast by avoiding food made of rice and other grains.
Strictly avoid eating rice and grains, honey, meat and eating on a bell metal plate. Do not apply oil to hairs on the day.
What food can be eaten on Ekadasi for those observing partial fast? Those taking partial fast can consume fruits and milk.
AFTERNOON
Perform chanting whenever you get gap amidst your works.
EVENING PRAYERS
Take a bath in the evening.
Repeat the morning puja to Vishnu/ Krishna.
Visit Vishnu/ Krishna temple and witness the evening puja and rituals. Chant a few rounds.
PRAYERS FOR EKADASI
(i) Hare krishna Maha Manthra. And any other prayers such as (ii)Vishnu Ashotharam. (iii)Vishnu Sahasranamam. However, Hare Krishna Maha Manthra should not be skipped. It is compulsory.
NEXT DAY MORNING
The fast is broken on the next day (Dwadashi) after taking bath. Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu/ Krishna by lighting a lamp and then you can break the fast between 06.30 and 10.25.
Happy Ekadasi! Hare krishna!
EKADASI RECEIPS – THE FOODS TO BE PREPARED ON EKADASI CAN BE READ HERE
THE LIST AND LINKS OF 26 EKADASIS IN SEQUENCE CAN BE READ HERE
How to offer worship and prayers on Ekadasi? Read Here.
A-Z Tips on Ekadasi Fasting with practical considerations can be read here.