Achala Ekadashi Vrat: A Day to Steady the Mind and Soul

Introduction

Achala Ekadashi is a sacred fasting day in Hinduism, observed on the Ekadashi (11th lunar day) of Krishna Paksha (waning phase) in the Jyeshtha month (May–June). The word "Achala" means steady or immovable, symbolizing unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu. Observing this vrat is believed to remove sins, grant spiritual merit, and stabilize one's inner self.

Parana must be done after sunrise and before the Dwadashi Tithi ends.

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Significance of Achala Ekadashi

This Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually potent fasts for those seeking:

Freedom from sins and bad karmas

Steadfastness in dharma and devotion

Control over wandering mind and desires

Peaceful and divine spiritual energy

It is said that fasting on this Ekadashi is equivalent to performing hundreds of Yagyas and Tirtha yatras.

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Achala Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story)

The Achala Ekadashi Vrat Katha is narrated in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, as told by Lord Krishna to King Yudhishthira.

Once, a powerful and wealthy king named Harishchandra ruled with fairness but was tested by fate. Due to a divine test by Sage Vishwamitra, he lost his kingdom, wife, and son, and was reduced to working at a cremation ground.

Despite the hardships, Harishchandra never abandoned truth or dharma. One day, he met a saint who advised him to observe Achala Ekadashi Vrat with full devotion. The king fasted, prayed to Lord Vishnu, and stayed awake the entire night chanting His name.

As a result, all his past karmas were purified, he got his family and kingdom restored, and Vishnu Himself blessed him with liberation. This story teaches us the power of faith, truth, and steady devotion.

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Who Should Observe Achala Ekadashi?

Devotees of Vishnu and Krishna

Spiritual seekers aiming to remove past karmas

People suffering from mental instability, financial troubles, or emotional distress

Those who want steadiness in mind, goals, and faith

It is especially beneficial for householders who wish to develop a balance between material and spiritual life.

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How to Perform Achala Ekadashi Vrat?

Preparation:

Begin the day before (Dashami) by eating a satvik (pure vegetarian, no onion/garlic) meal before sunset.

Observe Ekadashi fast with complete or partial fasting, depending on your capacity.

Puja Vidhi (Rituals):

1. Wake up early, take a bath and wear clean clothes.

2. Clean the puja space and place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu or Krishna.

3. Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, incense, diya, and Panchamrit.

4. Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Achala Ekadashi Vrat Katha, and Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

5. Read or listen to the Achala Ekadashi story (Katha).

6. Stay awake during the night (Jagran) chanting bhajans and doing kirtan.

Fasting Options:

Nirjala (without water or food)

Phalahar (fruits, milk, nuts)

Partial (one meal without grains, onion, garlic)

Next Day (Parana):

Break the fast after sunrise on Dwadashi, offering food and dakshina to Brahmins or feeding the poor.

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Where to Perform the Vrat?

At home temples, with a clean and spiritual setup

In Vishnu temples or ISKCON centers, if accessible

In ashrams or during satsang gatherings

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Benefits of Achala Ekadashi

Destroys past sins and karmic burdens

Instills mental discipline and emotional balance

Enhances devotion and connection with Vishnu

Brings prosperity, health, and liberation (moksha)

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Spiritual Message of Achala Ekadashi

Achala Ekadashi urges us to stay firm in our spiritual path, just as a mountain doesn’t waver in storms. In today’s world of distractions, this vrat is a powerful way to re-center our thoughts, cleanse our inner self, and dedicate time to bhakti (devotion).

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