Mohini Ekadashi

Mohini Ekadashi has a very special place in the divine traditions of Sanatan Dharma. This Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of Shukla Paksha of Vaishakh month. This Ekadashi is considered to be the date that removes attachment and connects the soul with the Supreme Soul.

The name ‘Mohini’ itself indicates – that which removes the illusions like attachment, illusion, lust, greed and ego. Worshiping Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini on this holy date liberates one from all the bonds of human life and paves the way for salvation.

Importance of Mohini Ekadashi

It is described in the Puranas that when nectar came out of the churning of the ocean, then the struggle to get it started between the gods and demons. Then Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini and provided nectar to the gods and paved the way for the welfare of the creation. This is the same Mohini form, which became a symbol of the victory of truth over untruth.

The religious belief is that Any devotee who observes fast and remembers Lord Vishnu’s name on this day, all his sins are destroyed.

Fasting on Mohini Ekadashi protects one from sorrow, poverty, disease, sin and misfortune.

Prayer, service and charity done on this day leads to attainment of eternal virtue.

Charity and service

Charity is considered an integral part of life in Hinduism. It is mentioned in the scriptures—

Daanam Tapah Samam Nasti Na Daanaat Param Sukham.

There is no religion greater than charity and penance, and there is no happiness greater than charity.

Mohini Ekadashi is not only a day of fasting and worship, but this day is an opportunity to imbibe the spirit of compassion, kindness and service. Serving the downtrodden, poor, helpless, orphan and handicapped people becomes a medium of special grace of Lord Vishnu on this day.

It is said in Kurmapuran-

Swargaayurbhutikamen tatha paapopashantaye.

Mumukshuna cha daatvyam brahmanebhyastathavaham.

Meaning, a person who desires heaven, long life and prosperity and wants to get peace from sins and salvation should donate generously to Brahmins and deserving people.

On this auspicious occasion of Mohini Ekadashi, by donating, feed the poor, handicapped and helpless children once a year for life and get the blessings of Lord Shri Hari Vishnu.