The Papamochani Ekadashi, also known as the Ekadashi that removes sin, will be observed on March 25 and 26, 2025. This day holds immense significance for followers of Lord Vishnu, emphasizing the importance of fasting and worshipping to seek liberation from past sins.
According to the Hindu calendar, the Ekadashi Tithi will begin at 5:05 AM on March 25, 2025, and conclude at 3:45 AM the following day. The time for breaking the fast, known as Parana, will be observed on March 26 from 1:40 PM to 4:07 PM, with an auspicious Vaishnava Parana time from 6:16 AM to 8:44 AM on March 27.
The term 'Papamochani' is derived from the words 'Paap' (sin) and 'Mochani' (removal), and it is believed that observing this fast helps devotees remove past sins committed knowingly or unknowingly. Followers seek forgiveness from Lord Vishnu for their wrongdoings, and it is seen as an opportunity for atonement.
The narrative surrounding Papamochani Ekadashi is beautifully narrated in the Bhavishyottara Purana, where Lord Krishna explains the significance of this day to King Yudhishthira. The legend features Sage Medhavi, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, who experiences a series of events leading to the observance of this fast.
According to the tale, the apsara Manjughosha attempted to distract Sage Medhavi from his penance. Despite her efforts, Medhavi remained focused until the powerful arrows of Kamadeva led him astray, resulting in his marriage to her. Years later, when Manjughosha sought to leave him, Medhavi cursed her to become a witch. Realizing his mistake, he approached his father, Sage Chyavana, who advised him to perform the Papamochani Ekadashi fast to cleanse his sins.
After observing the fast, both Sage Medhavi and Manjughosha were relieved from their curses and attained liberation from their past wrongdoings.
To properly observe the Papamochani Ekadashi, devotees are encouraged to wake up early, take a bath, and clean their puja area. An idol of Lord Vishnu should be placed, alongside a Shree Yantra representing Goddess Laxmi. Devotees are advised to light a ghee lamp and apply tilak on Lord Vishnu’s idol, offering Tulsi leaves and a garland comprising yellow flowers. It is also essential to recite the Vrat Katha and various mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu during the observance.
The daily rituals suggest performing aarti and offering bhog prasad in the evening. For those unable to fast strictly, it's recommended to consume satvik food like kuttu poori (buckwheat bread) and aloo sabzi (potato curry) made with rock salt. The fast is concluded during the Parana Time on the Dwadashi Tithi.
Those participating in this Ekadashi are urged to chant mantras such as "Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaye" and "Hare Ram Hare Ram, Ram Ram Hare Hare, Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare" to resonate with the spiritual essence of the day.
The observance of Papamochani Ekadashi undoubtedly plays a pivotal role in many devout Hindu's lives, as it offers a sense of hope and redemption for their past misdeeds. Many practitioners believe that through this fast, they can attain peace and prosperity in their lives. As we approach this significant day, it presents an opportunity for countless individuals to reflect, repent, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
In the spirit of the festival, it is also advisable to perform charitable acts and provide assistance to those in need, as this amplifies the benefits gained through prayer and fasting.
Certainly, Papamochani Ekadashi is not just a festival of rituals but a powerful reminder of the path to spiritual cleansing and balance, whereby followers reaffirm their devotion to Lord Vishnu while striving to lead a life free from sin.
