Mohini Ekadashi, observed in the bright fortnight of the month of Vaishakha, is a day dedicated to spiritual upliftment. This sacred Ekadashi helps the sincere devotee to overcome illusion and move steadily towards perfection of life.
The Story and Significance of Mohini Ekadashi
The glories of Mohini Ekadashi are described in the Kurma Purana, where Lord Krishna explains its importance to Yudhishthira. In response to his inquiry, the Lord recounts a dialogue between Lord Rama and the great sage Vasishtha.
During this conversation, Lord Rama inquired about a sacred observance capable of removing suffering. Sage Vasishtha described Mohini Ekadashi as a powerful vrata that destroys sins and frees one from material illusion. He further clarified that although the Lord is beyond all suffering, such inquiries are made for the welfare and guidance of all living beings.
Vasishtha Muni then narrated the story of Dhrishthabuddhi, the son of a merchant, who became deeply absorbed in sinful activities and lost all good association. Rejected by society, he wandered into the forest and endured great hardship.
By divine arrangement, he came into contact with Kaundinya Muni, whose association awakened a desire for transformation within him. Following the sage’s instructions, he observed Mohini Ekadashi with sincerity, by which his accumulated sins were destroyed, and he attained spiritual purification and liberation.
Observing the Mohini Ekadashi
To observe Mohini Ekadashi, devotees may fast according to their capacity, while strictly avoiding grains, legumes, and pulses. The focus of the day is to deepen one’s sadhana and increase remembrance of the Lord.
Devotees can engage more sincerely in chanting the holy names, reading scriptures, and hearing about the Lord’s divine pastimes. Visiting the temple for darshan, offering bhoga with devotion, and participating in seva and charity are highly recommended on this auspicious day.
Even a simple and sincere observance of this Ekadashi brings great spiritual benefit and helps one progress steadily on the path of devotion.
Glories of Mohini Ekadashi
Mohini Ekadashi is renowned for its unique spiritual potency. It helps free one from the influence of illusion (Maya), gradually clears the burden of past karmic reactions, and removes both internal and external obstacles on the spiritual path. By observing this sacred vrata with sincerity, a devotee is able to make steady progress in devotional life. As stated from observing this Ekadashi surpasses that of many other pious activities combined.
Mohini Ekadashi will be observed on 27th April 2026. The fast-breaking (parana) is to be performed on 28th April 2026, between 07:13 am and 11:28 am for Mumbai.
On this sacred occasion of Mohini Ekadashi, we humbly invite you to offer your generous contribution by visiting: https://www.iskconbhiwandi.org/annadaan
