New Delhi: In Hindu religion, Ekadashi date is considered special for the worship of Lord Vishnu. Ekadashi falling in Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapada month is called Aja Ekadashi. On this day, there is a tradition of worshiping Goddess Lakshmi along with Shri Hari Vishnu and observing fast. There is a religious belief that by fasting on Aja Ekadashi with devotion and listening to the story, one gets freedom from negative karma and gets the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Fast story of Aja Ekadashi
According to the legend, King Harishchandra was a great king who followed truth and religion. At one time there was such a crisis in his life that he had to leave his kingdom and property. The situation became so difficult that he had to be separated from his family and had to work for someone else to earn his living.
Despite difficult circumstances, the king did not leave the path of truth. During this time he met Gautam Rishi. The king told his problems to the sage. Hearing his condition, Gautam Rishi advised him to observe fast on Bhadrapada Krishna Ekadashi i.e. Aja Ekadashi.
The sage told that this fast is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and observing it regularly can reduce the troubles of life. King Harishchandra observed a fast with devotion and worshiped Sri Hari.
According to religious belief, due to the effect of fasting, the sorrows in the king's life started going away. He got back his lost kingdom, wealth and family. In the end, by the grace of Lord Vishnu he attained salvation.
How to worship on Aja Ekadashi?
On this day, take bath in the morning, meditate on Lord Vishnu and take a pledge to fast. After cleaning the place of worship, install the picture or statue of Shri Hari. Offer yellow flowers, yellow clothes, fruits and satvik bhog to God. Worship Lord Vishnu by lighting lamps and incense.
Chanting the mantra 'Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya' throughout the day is considered auspicious. In the evening, perform Aarti of Lord Vishnu and read or listen to the story of Aja Ekadashi. Next day, after the puja on Dwadashi, break the fast as per your capacity and donate food or clothes to the needy. According to religious belief, by observing the fast of Aja Ekadashi with devotion and rules, one gets the blessings of Shri Hari Vishnu.