Shattila Ekadashi: Significance, Story, Rituals, Vrat Vidhi & Spiritual Benefits
- _Shokesh _
- 13 hours ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
Shattila Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually significant Ekadashis observed in the Hindu calendar. It falls in the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of the month of Magha. The word Shattila is derived from two Sanskrit words — ‘Shat’ (six) and ‘Til’ (sesame seeds). On this sacred day, sesame seeds are used in six holy ways, making this Ekadashi especially powerful for sin removal, ancestral peace, and prosperity.
This vrat is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. Observing Shattila Ekadashi with devotion is believed to cleanse accumulated karmas, grant spiritual upliftment, and bless the devotee with health, wealth, and peace.
When is Shattila Ekadashi Celebrated?
Shattila Ekadashi is observed on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi Tithi) of Krishna Paksha in Magha month (January–February). The exact date varies every year based on the Hindu Panchang.
Why is Shattila Ekadashi Important?
According to Hindu scriptures, especially the Padma Purana, sins committed knowingly or unknowingly are destroyed by observing Shattila Ekadashi. Since Magha month itself is considered highly auspicious, Ekadashi during this period becomes even more powerful.
Key spiritual purposes:
Removal of past-life and present-life sins
Pitra Dosh and ancestral dissatisfaction relief
Attainment of Vaikuntha Lok after death
Protection from poverty and misfortune
The Six Uses of Sesame Seeds (Shat-Til Vidhi)
The soul of Shattila Ekadashi lies in the sacred use of sesame seeds in six different forms:
Til Snan – Bathing with sesame mixed in water
Til Ubtan – Applying sesame paste on the body
Til Havan – Offering sesame seeds into the sacred fire
Til Tarpan – Offering sesame seeds mixed with water to ancestors
Til Daan – Donating sesame seeds to Brahmins or the needy
Til Bhojan – Consuming food prepared with sesame seeds
These six acts symbolically cleanse the body, mind, soul, karma, lineage, and destiny.
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi (Rituals)
1. Preparation (Dashami Day)
Take a sattvik meal once
Avoid grains, onion, garlic, alcohol
Practice celibacy and purity
2. Ekadashi Day Rituals
Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat
Take bath with sesame-infused water
Wear clean or yellow clothes
Perform Lord Vishnu Puja with:
Tulsi leaves
Yellow flowers
Sesame oil diya
Panchamrit
3. Fasting Rules
Nirjala (waterless) or phalahar vrat
Avoid grains, rice, wheat, lentils
Chant Vishnu mantras throughout the day
4. Night Vigil (Jagran)
Recite Vishnu Sahasranama
Read Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Bhajan and Kirtan
5. Dwadashi Parana
Break fast the next day after sunrise
Donate food, sesame, clothes
Shattila Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Story)
Once there lived a pious woman who regularly observed Ekadashi fasts but never donated food or wealth. After her death, she reached heaven but had nothing to eat. Lord Vishnu appeared and explained that while fasting brings merit, daan (charity) is equally essential.
The woman was reborn and observed Shattila Ekadashi properly — fasting, donating sesame seeds, and worshipping Vishnu with devotion. As a result, she attained prosperity in life and liberation after death.
Moral: Fasting without charity is incomplete. Shattila Ekadashi teaches balance between devotion and compassion.
Powerful Mantras to Chant
Vishnu Mantra
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
Ekadashi Mantra
ॐ विष्णवे नमः
Til Daan Mantra
तिलान् ददामि पितृभ्यः स्वधा नमः
Chant each mantra 108 times for best results.
Benefits of Observing Shattila Ekadashi
Destroys accumulated sins
Brings financial stability
Grants ancestral blessings
Enhances spiritual discipline
Helps in health and longevity
Removes negative planetary effects
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
Donate sesame seeds and food
Worship Lord Vishnu with Tulsi
Maintain purity in thought and action
Don’ts
Do not consume grains
Avoid anger, lies, gossip
Do not disrespect food or elders
Who Should Observe Shattila Ekadashi?
Students seeking wisdom
Families facing financial stress
People suffering from Pitra Dosh
Devotees seeking Vishnu’s grace
Spiritual Meaning of Sesame (Til)
Sesame seeds symbolize:
Immortality
Protection from negativity
Ancestral connection
Sacrificial purity
That is why til is mandatory in Magha month rituals.
Conclusion
Shattila Ekadashi is not just a fast but a complete spiritual purification process. By observing this vrat with sincerity, devotion, charity, and discipline, one can transform their karmic path and invite divine grace into life.
May Lord Shri Hari Vishnu bless all devotees with peace, prosperity, and moksha.
