Apara Ekadashi, a sacred observance in the Hindu calendar, will be observed on Friday, May 23, 2025. This spiritually significant fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to help cleanse one’s soul of past misdeeds and sins.
What is Apara Ekadashi?
Apara Ekadashi holds great importance among the 24 Ekadashis observed each year. The word Apara translates to limitless, symbolizing the vast spiritual benefits that come from observing this vrat (fast). Devotees believe that fasting on this day brings divine grace, washes away negative karma, and offers a path toward spiritual growth.
On this day, devotees worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, chant prayers and bhajans, and follow strict fasting rituals to seek his blessings.
Key Dates and Timings for Apara Ekadashi 2025:
- Ekadashi Vrat Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
- Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 1:12 AM on May 23
- Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 10:29 PM on May 23
- Parana (Breaking the Fast): Saturday, May 24
- Parana Time: 5:27 AM to 8:12 AM
- Dwadashi Tithi Ends: 7:20 PM on May 24
Important Note on Parana and Dwadashi:
The fast should be broken on Dwadashi Tithi, and only after sunrise. It’s important to break the fast during the Parana window. Breaking it too early or missing the right time is believed to diminish the benefits of the fast.
Also, avoid breaking your fast during Hari Vasara, the initial part of Dwadashi. Always wait until it ends before proceeding with Parana.
Apara Ekadashi Puja Vidhi – A Simple Ritual Guide
Observing Apara Ekadashi begins with sincerity and devotion. Here’s how you can perform the puja:
- Start early: Wake up before sunrise and take a bath.
- Prepare the Puja space: Clean your home temple or puja area. Place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu.
- Offerings: Present Tulsi leaves, fresh flowers, sandalwood paste, and light a ghee diya.
- Chant and Pray: Recite the Vishnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Vishnu) and listen to or read the Ekadashi Vrat Katha.
- Fasting: You may observe a Nirjala vrat (without water) or opt for a lighter fast with fruits and milk.
Who Should Fast on Which Day?
Occasionally, Ekadashi is observed on two days depending on the calendar and tradition. Here’s how to decide:
- Householders (those living a family life) should observe the fast on the first day.
- Monks or spiritual seekers aiming for liberation (moksha) should fast on the second day.
- Vaishnavas, devotees of Lord Vishnu, generally follow their own traditions and may fast on the second day.
- Some dedicated devotees even choose to observe the fast on both days for enhanced spiritual benefits.
Spiritual Significance of Apara Ekadashi
The essence of Apara Ekadashi lies in inner purification and transformation. Observing this fast is believed to burn away the burden of past wrongdoings and clear the path toward peace, strength, and liberation. With heartfelt prayers and sincere fasting, devotees draw closer to Lord Vishnu’s divine presence, finding clarity, grace, and deeper spiritual connection.
