Padmini Ekadashi
Padmini Ekadashi is a highly sacred Ekadashi observed during the Shukla Paksha of Adhik Maas, also known as Purushottam Maas. Since Adhik Maas generally occurs once every three years, this Ekadashi holds special religious importance. Devotees observe the fast to worship Lord Vishnu, particularly in His Purushottam form, and seek His blessings for spiritual growth, peace, prosperity and freedom from past sins.
On this day, devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, make a fasting vow and worship Lord Vishnu with flowers, Tulsi leaves, incense, lamps and devotional offerings. Many devotees recite the Padmini Ekadashi Vrat Katha, chant Vishnu mantras, read the Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Sahasranama and remain awake at night while performing bhajan and kirtan. The fast is concluded through Parana on Dwadashi at the prescribed time.
Padmini Ekadashi teaches the importance of devotion, self-control, purity and charity. It is believed that observing this vrat with sincerity helps purify the mind, strengthen faith and guide the devotee towards the grace of Lord Vishnu and ultimately moksha.
Padmini Ekadashi is one of the most auspicious fasting days dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It falls on the eleventh lunar day of the waxing moon during Adhik Maas. This additional lunar month is devoted to Lord Purushottam, a divine form of Lord Vishnu, which is why Padmini Ekadashi is also known as Purushottami Ekadashi.
According to Hindu tradition, the spiritual merit earned through worship, fasting, charity and mantra chanting during Adhik Maas is considered especially significant. Devotees believe that observing Padmini Ekadashi with faith can help reduce the effects of negative karma, remove obstacles and bring divine protection. The vrat is also associated with harmony in married life, family happiness, prosperity and fulfilment of righteous wishes.
The observance generally begins on Dashami with a simple and sattvic lifestyle. Devotees avoid tamasic food, anger, dishonesty and harmful behaviour. On Ekadashi, some observe a complete fast, while others consume fruits, milk, nuts or permitted fasting foods according to their health and ability. Rice, grains and pulses are traditionally avoided. Lord Vishnu is worshipped with Tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, fruits and sweets, followed by mantra chanting and the recitation of the vrat katha.
The spiritual purpose of Padmini Ekadashi is not limited to avoiding food. The vrat encourages devotees to control their senses, purify their thoughts, practise compassion and dedicate their time to prayer. Helping the needy and offering food, clothes or other useful items in charity are also considered meaningful acts on this occasion.
The fast should be concluded on Dwadashi during the correct Parana period after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. Exact rituals and timings may vary according to location and family tradition. Har Ghar Pandit Ji advises devotees to observe Padmini Ekadashi according to their health, personal capacity and guidance from a knowledgeable priest. Pregnant women, elderly people and individuals with medical conditions should avoid strict fasting and choose a simple sattvic diet instead.