One of the most important and common spiritual practices in Sanatan Dharma is Ekadashi fasting. Ekadashi is a day of devotion, restraint and awareness that is observed by millions of followers twice on every month, during waxing and waning periods of the moon. However, the general question of all times now is why do we fast on Ekadashi? Is it merely a religious ceremony or is it something more spiritual and scientific?
What Is Ekadashi and Why It Matters
Ekadashi is simply translated as the eleventh. It is the 11th lunar day (Tithi) of both the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha (waning moon) in the Hindu lunar calendar. Ekadashi is not just the fasting, as it is on the regular fasting days, but rather the cleansing of the body, soothing of the mind and raising of consciousness.
Food as a part of Hindu philosophy does not influence only the body but also the mind. Ekadashi fasting also minimizes tamasic effects, works to improve self control and also increases devotion to the divine, in this case, to Lord Vishnu, whom Ekadashi is believed to be most fond of.
Meaning and Significance
Ekadashi occurs 24 times a year (sometimes 26 due to lunar variations). Each Ekadashi has its own name and spiritual importance, such as Nirjala Ekadashi, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and Utpanna Ekadashi.
Key significance of Ekadashi:
- It is dedicated primarily to Lord Vishnu
- It promotes detachment from material indulgence
- It is believed to cleanse sins accumulated knowingly and unknowingly
- Both Shukla and Krishna Paksha Ekadashis are equally powerful
According to scriptures, Ekadashi fasting is superior to many elaborate rituals when performed with sincerity and devotion.
Mythological Origins: Story of Ekadashi Devi (Utpanna Ekadashi)
Among the strongest reasons as to why Ekadashi is followed is the legend of Ekadashi Devi, who is linked to Utpanna Ekadashi.
The Terror of Mura Asura
The Asura is a mighty demon that lived in Satya Yuga by the name Mura (Mur). He conquered the Devas with immense power and arrogance and occupied Swarga (heaven). The deities, who could not stand his horror, fled.
At the bequest of Lord Shiva, the Devas went to see Lord Vishnu who was the guardian of the universe.
Vishnu’s Battle and Yogic Rest
Lord Vishnu made a decision to fight with Mura. A terrible fight was fought at Chandravati Puri. Lord Vishnu retired into a cave after an extended battle to sleep in a Yog Nidra (bearer of divinity).
Mura entered the cave with Vishnu, and was going to kill him when he was asleep.
Birth of Ekadashi Devi
Just then a divine, radiant feminine energy brought out of the body of Lord Vishnu. This heavenly damsel was shining with the overwhelming spiritual energy and divine shine. She took Mura into a fight and killed the demon in one second.
The Divine Boon
Upon waking of Lord Vishnu He saw the dead demon and the lustrous goddess. When she inquired what her identity was she modestly responded that she was born of His divine energy in order to guard righteousness.
Pleased, Lord Vishnu granted her a boon:
“Whoever observes fasting on the day of your appearance shall be freed from sins and attain liberation.”
Thus, Ekadashi Devi was blessed, and Ekadashi fasting began. Since she was “born” on this tithi, it came to be known as Utpanna Ekadashi—the origin of all Ekadashi vrats.
Ekadashi in Padma Purana and Bhavishya Purana
Ancient scriptures provide detailed guidance on Ekadashi fasting, its importance, and its spiritual rewards.
Ekadashi in Padma Purana
Padma Purana gives extensive teachings on Ekadashi:
- Equal Importance: Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha Ekadashis are equally beneficial.
- Trisprisha Ekadashi: When Ekadashi extends across dawn, midday, and into Dwadashi, it becomes extremely auspicious.
- Padma (Harishayani) Ekadashi: Observing this vrat brought relief, prosperity, and rainfall during King Mandhata’s reign.
- Supreme Sin-Destroyer: The Purana declares Ekadashi as the most powerful vrat for destroying sins and attaining Vaikuntha.
Ekadashi in Bhavishya Purana
Bhavishya Purana highlights Ekadashi as:
- The Lamp of Bhakti: It illuminates the path of devotion to Lord Vishnu.
- Path to Moksha: Practiced by great devotees like King Ambarisha.
- Jaya Ekadashi: Fasting on this day washes away even the gravest sins.
Common Scriptural Essence
Across Puranas, Ekadashi emphasizes:
- Renunciation of grains
- Worship of Vishnu and Lakshmi
- Chanting, remembrance, and purity of conduct
- Attainment of supreme spiritual bliss
Why Do We Fast on Ekadashi?
Spiritual Reasons
Ekadashi fasting helps:
- Reduce material attachment
- Control senses (Indriya Nigrah)
- Increase Sattva Guna (purity)
- Enhance meditation and devotion
- Prepare the soul for liberation
It is believed that the mind is calmer and more receptive to spiritual practices on Ekadashi.
Religious Importance
Religiously, Ekadashi:
- Removes accumulated karmic burdens
- Is equivalent to performing great yajnas
- Brings Vishnu’s grace effortlessly
- Is accessible to all—rich or poor
Scientific and Health Reasons
Modern science aligns closely with Ekadashi fasting:
- Digestive rest: Avoiding grains gives the digestive system a break
- Detoxification: Helps eliminate toxins
- Hormonal balance: Lunar cycles affect bodily fluids and hormones
- Intermittent fasting benefits: Improved metabolism, clarity, and immunity
Ancient sages intuitively understood what science confirms today.
What Happens If We Don’t Fast on Ekadashi?
Scriptures say Ekadashi fasting should be observed according to one’s capacity. If fasting is skipped unintentionally due to illness or unavoidable reasons, devotion matters more than rigid rules.
However, knowingly ignoring Ekadashi without reason is believed to:
- Increase mental restlessness
- Reduce spiritual discipline
- Miss an opportunity for inner purification
Bhakti (devotion) remains the highest principle.
Types of Ekadashi Fasts
- Nirjala Ekadashi: No food, no water (most intense)
- Phalahar: Fruits, milk, nuts
- Partial fast: One satvik meal
- Mental fasting: Avoiding negativity, anger, and indulgence
Common Myths About Ekadashi
- Myth: Fasting is compulsory
Truth: Devotion matters most - Myth: Only saints should fast
Truth: Anyone can observe Ekadashi - Myth: Fasting causes weakness
Truth: Proper vrat food sustains energy
Conclusion: The True Essence of Ekadashi Fasting
Ekadashi fasting is not about punishment or denial—it is about alignment. Alignment of body with nature, mind with discipline, and soul with devotion. From the divine story of Ekadashi Devi to the wisdom of ancient Puranas and modern science, Ekadashi stands as a timeless practice of conscious living.
By observing Ekadashi with sincerity, even in small ways, one walks a step closer to inner peace, spiritual clarity, and divine grace.
