Lord Vishnu is one of the most significant Gods worshipped
by the Hindus during Magha Maas that falls between January-February every year.
People take dips during early mornings in the holy river of Ganga during these
months, and especially on Magha Purnima. It is believed that Lord Vishnu
resides in this holy river during this auspicious time and blesses all those
who bathe there to get rid of their sins. After Magha Purnima comes Vijaya
Ekadashi, another auspicious day when Lord Vishnu is worshipped. Vijaya
Ekadashi as known in North India is known as Pankoddhar Ekadashi in Orissa,
Mukkoti Ekadashi in Andhra Pradesh, and Baikuntha Ekadashi in South India.
Vijaya Ekadashi falls on the day of the waning phase of the
moon in Krishna Paksha; and this year it is to fall on 22nd
February. Millions of Hindus fast on this day to please Lord Vishnu. It is
believed that those who perform Vijaya Ekadashi can overcome their fears and
conquer their senses. It strengthens individuals to overcome any kinds of
difficulties. It is also believed that those who fast on this day are blessed
to enter Vishnulok – the abode of
Lord Vishnu.
Legend of Vijaya
Ekadashi
It is believed that Lord Rama, before marching towards Lanka
with his 'vaanar sena', observed this
Vijaya Ekadashi fast. When Lord Rama could see no means to cross the mighty
ocean to reach Lanka, he began praying and decided to observe fast, as advised
by sage Bakadalabhya. The sage also told Lord Rama that his fast would be a
source of inspiration for millions of Vishnu devotees, and that his victory
will be for sure. Also, in Skanda Purana, Lord Brahma narrated to sage Narada
the importance of fasting and praying on Vijaya Ekadashi.
How to perform Vijaya
Ekadashi?
Vijaya Ekadashi is to be strictly followed for 24 hours.
Devotees are advised to take bath with coconut oil and turmeric. People take
bath in the holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna, Padma and Mahanadi early morning on
this day to begin their fast. Fasting on Vijaya Ekadashi is equivalent to
fasting on the other 23 Ekadashis of the Hindu calendar. This fasting liberates
an individual from the cycle of birth and death. Due to this, it is also known
as Mokshadeyi Ekadashi. Devotees chant the Gayatri
Mantra and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Lamps of ghee
are lit. The Vishnu Sahashranama is
recited. Fasting includes abstinence from evil actions, bad thoughts and
worldly pursuits. Brahmins are offered food and alms to get rid of past sins.
Devotees who observe this fast are only allowed to consume fruits, nuts and
milk on this day. Also, chick peas and jaggery are allowed. The fast is broken
at dawn by consuming cereal and jaggery.
Vijaya Ekadashi ensures purity of mind, body and soul in
various ways. If you are looking for such kind of peace and purity in life, you
must also perform this fasting and prayer. Not only Lord Vishnu, but whichever
God and Goddess you worship and whichever kind of Puja you are looking for, you
can always rely on MakeMyPuja to help you with any kind of assistance. You can
also hire MakeMyPuja Pandits to help you perform all sorts of Pujas in the most
appropriate manner to help bring the best outcomes.
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