Mohini Ekadashi: The Divine Path to Self-Purification

In the sacred tradition of Sanatana Dharma, the Ekadashi tithi (11th lunar day) is observed twice a month—once during the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) and once during the waning moon (Krishna Paksha). Among these, Mohini Ekadashi holds a special place, celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Vaishakha month. It is named after the divine form of Lord Vishnu as Mohini, the celestial enchantress who bewitched the demons to restore divine order during the Samudra Manthan.

What is Ekadashi?

Ekadashi is derived from Sanskrit: “एकादशी” meaning ‘eleventh’. According to Vedic texts, fasting on Ekadashi is highly beneficial for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is said in the Padma Purana:

“एकादश्यां व्रतं श्रेष्ठं सर्वपापप्रणाशनम् ।
न किञ्चिदपि तन्नास्ति यन्न शक्यं व्रतेन हि ॥”
– Padma Purana

“Ekadashi vrat is supreme and the destroyer of all sins. Nothing is impossible to achieve through the observance of this sacred fast.”

Significance of Mohini Ekadashi

The Mohini Ekadashi is considered extremely auspicious for seeking Moksha (liberation) and purification of sins. This Ekadashi gets its name from Lord Vishnu’s Mohini avatar—the only female form of Vishnu. During the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), when the nectar of immortality emerged, it was Lord Vishnu who assumed the enchanting form of Mohini to distribute the nectar among the gods and protect it from the demons.

As mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana (Skanda 8, Chapter 9):

“सर्वे मोहयितुं लोके मोहिन्याख्यां चकार ह ॥”
– Bhagavata Purana 8.9.17

“To delude the demons and protect the nectar, the Lord assumed the form of Mohini.”

The Katha (Sacred Story) of Mohini Ekadashi

Once, Yudhishthira Maharaja asked Lord Krishna to explain the significance of this Ekadashi. Lord Krishna narrated the tale from the times of ancient King Dhrishtabuddhi of Bhadravati, who had led a sinful life. He committed heinous acts, including stealing, adultery, and murder. Banished from his kingdom, he wandered in forests suffering from hunger, disease, and guilt.

One day, Dhrishtabuddhi met Sage Kaundinya on the banks of the Ganga. Seeing the sage’s divine aura, the king begged for guidance. The sage advised him to observe Mohini Ekadashi with full devotion and fasting. The king followed his advice and observed the fast sincerely. As a result, all his sins were absolved. At the end of his life, celestial messengers took him to Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu.

Such is the power of this sacred vrat, as elaborated by Lord Krishna:

“मोहिनी एकादशी सम्प्राप्ता या पापिनां पापहन्त्री भवति।
या सर्वे पातकनाशिनी भवति, तस्याः श्रवणमात्रेण मनुष्यः पवित्रो भवति॥”
– Vishnu Dharmaottara

“Mohini Ekadashi is the destroyer of all sins, and even hearing its glories purifies the soul.”

Rituals and Observances

1. Vrat (Fasting): Devotees observe a strict fast, avoiding grains, pulses, and certain vegetables. Some observe nirjala (without water) fast, while others consume fruits and milk.
2. Jagran and Bhajans: The night is spent in prayer, chanting Vishnu Sahasranama and devotional bhajans in honor of Lord Vishnu.
3. Charity and Acts of Kindness: Offering food, clothes, and alms to Brahmins and the poor is considered highly meritorious.
4. Puja Vidhi: Devotees offer tulsi leaves, flowers, incense, lamp, and bhog (sattvic food) to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu is worshipped with mantras such as:
   “ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय”

Spiritual and Psychological Benefits

• Fasting gives the digestive system a break and promotes physical detoxification.
• Mental focus and spiritual growth increase with reduced sensory indulgence.
• The rituals create a rhythm of discipline, devotion, and inner peace.

Vedic References and Praise

The Skanda Purana and Padma Purana mention Ekadashi as the mother of devotion. In the Hari Bhakti Vilasa, it is stated:

“एकादशी व्रतं यस्य न प्रीयेत जनार्दनः ।
सर्वपापविनिर्मुक्तः स याति परमं पदम् ॥”
– Hari Bhakti Vilasa

“He who observes Ekadashi vrat pleases Lord Janardana and attains supreme liberation.”

FInally

Mohini Ekadashi is more than just a religious observance. It is a transformative spiritual discipline that uplifts the soul, cleanses the heart, and connects one with the Divine. In today’s fast-paced world, observing such days can center our minds and offer spiritual rejuvenation.

By following the vrat, hearing the katha, and chanting the name of Vishnu, one not only walks the path of righteousness but also sows the seeds of eternal bliss.