Mohini Ekadashi, observed on the Ekadashi (11th lunar day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Vaishakha, holds a sacred place in Hindu tradition. This year, it falls on Thursday, 8 May 2025. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this Ekadashi is named after his divine Mohini avatar, an enchanting form he assumed to protect the nectar of immortality from demons during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan).
Significance of Mohini Ekadashi
The day is believed to be extremely powerful for:
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Erasing sins committed in past lives
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Granting spiritual clarity and purity of mind
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Providing liberation from the cycle of birth and death (moksha)
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Helping devotees attain success, happiness, and divine blessings
It is said that observing the Mohini Ekadashi vrat brings the same merit as performing a thousand Ashwamedha Yagnas.
Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Legend)
According to the Padma Purana, the vrat katha of Mohini Ekadashi was narrated by Lord Krishna to Yudhishthira. In ancient times, a wealthy and charitable king named Dhanapala ruled in Bhadravati. His daughter, Chandrabhaaga, married a prince who died while observing Mohini Ekadashi vrat. Due to her strict devotion and fasting rituals, she was taken to Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu. This story illustrates the immense power of Ekadashi fasting and devotion.
Rituals and Observances
Preparations:
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Rise early and bathe before sunrise
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Clean the prayer area and install an idol or image of Lord Vishnu
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Offer flowers, tulsi leaves, incense, and lamps
Fasting Rules:
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Nirjala vrat (no food or water) is considered most auspicious
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Alternatively, Phalahar vrat (fruits, milk, and water) is also observed
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Avoid grains, pulses, and regular food throughout the day
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Chant Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
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Perform Jagran (night vigil) by singing bhajans and reading scriptures
Breaking the Fast (Parana):
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Parana should be done on Dwadashi Tithi, the next morning
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Offer food and donations to Brahmins or needy people before eating
Parana Time: Friday, 9 May 2025 (after sunrise – exact time may vary by location)
Mohini Ekadashi 2025 – Key Timings
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Ekadashi Tithi Begins: Wednesday, 7 May 2025 at 08:17 AM
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Ekadashi Tithi Ends: Thursday, 8 May 2025 at 05:39 AM
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Parana Timing: Friday, 9 May 2025, after 05:30 AM (check local panchang)
Benefits of Observing Mohini Ekadashi
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Purifies the soul and mind
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Helps release negativity, fear, and ego
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Brings spiritual awareness and peace
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Gains Lord Vishnu’s grace for protection and prosperity
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Promotes health, longevity, and good karma
Conclusion
Mohini Ekadashi is more than just a fast—it is a spiritual gateway to inner cleansing and divine connection. Observing this vrat on 8 May 2025 with devotion and sincerity can transform your life, guiding you toward peace, purity, and liberation from material bondage. Through prayer, discipline, and the grace of Lord Vishnu, this sacred day offers a rare opportunity to cleanse the soul and align with your higher self.
