Divine Details about Kamika Ekadashi in brief, fasting and more.

Kamika Ekadashi, observed during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Shravana (July-August), is one of the most significant spiritual observances in the Hindu calendar dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In 2024, this auspicious day falls on July 31st, offering devotees a unique opportunity to enhance their spiritual growth and wash away sins. This article will guide you through the essentials of 2024 Kamika Ekadashi Date Puja Timings and More.

2024 Kamika Ekadashi Date Puja Timings

The exact timing for the Kamika Ekadashi puja in 2024 is critical to its observance. Devotees should commence the puja early in the morning after taking a bath and should be completed before the end of Dwadashi. The Parana time, which is when the fast is broken, is on August 1st, from 6:01 am to 8:38 am IST. It’s important to perform the Parana within this time frame to obtain the full benefits of the fast.

Pooja Procedure at Home

The pooja involves several steps that are simple yet profound in their spiritual significance:

1. Sanctify the Puja Area: Clean the area where the puja will be conducted and lay a red cloth on the altar.
2. Install the Idols: Place idols or pictures of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on the altar.
3. Light a Diya: Light an oil lamp and incense sticks to create a conducive atmosphere for worship.
4. Offer Prayers: Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama or any other prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
5. Offerings: Offer fruits, flowers, tulsi leaves, and other sacred items to the deities.
6. Aarti: Perform the Aarti for Lord Vishnu with a camphor lamp while singing devotional songs.

Pooja Items List

For the Kamika Ekadashi pooja, gather the following items:

• Idols or pictures of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
• A red cloth for the altar
• Oil lamp and incense sticks
• Fruits, flowers, and tulsi leaves
• Camphor and aarti plate
• Sacred water for offering (Gangajal if available)

Fasting Rules and Regulations

Fasting on Kamika Ekadashi starts at sunrise on the day of Ekadashi and ends with Parana on the next day. Devotees should consume only fruits, vegetables, and milk products on the eve (Dashami) to ensure the stomach is empty by Ekadashi morning. Complete fasting is recommended on Ekadashi day, but those unable to do so may consume milk, fruits, and water. Abstain from rice, grains, and pulses as they are prohibited during Ekadashi fasting.

Fasting Break Timings

Breaking the fast (Parana) is as crucial as the fast itself. The fast should be broken after sunrise on Dwadashi, within the specified Parana time window. Consuming grains during Parana is advised as it signifies the end of the fast.

Significance of Kamika Ekadashi

Kamika Ekadashi is believed to bring the same merits as conducting a Ashwamedha Yagya or donating a cow. It is a day for devotees to draw closer to Lord Vishnu, seeking forgiveness for sins and ultimately aiming for liberation (Moksha). The fast and puja purify the mind and soul, encouraging virtues like compassion, humility, and devotion.

Do’s and Don’ts in Kamika Ekadashi Vrat

Do’s:

• Engage in meditation and chanting of Lord Vishnu’s names.
• Read or listen to the Bhagavad Gita and other sacred texts.
• Offer services and donations to Brahmins and the needy.

Don’ts:

• Avoid eating rice, grains, and pulses.
• Refrain from negative activities like lying, stealing, or harming others.
• Avoid sleeping during the daytime and indulgence in physical pleasures.

FAQs about 2024 Kamika Ekadashi Date Puja Timings

Q1. Can I drink water while fasting? Yes, you can consume water while observing the Ekadashi fast. However, for those performing nirjala fast, even water is not consumed.

Q2. Is it necessary to stay awake all night on Kamika Ekadashi? Staying awake all night and engaging in bhajans and kirtans is highly meritorious but not compulsory.

Q3. Can I break my fast if I feel unwell? Yes, health comes first. If you feel unwell, you can break the fast by consuming fruits or light sattvic food.

Observing Kamika Ekadashi with devotion and adherence to the rituals and fasting rules is a pathway to divine blessings and spiritual progress. It is a day to renew our commitment to dharma and move closer to the supreme goal of Moksha under the benevolent gaze of Lord Vishnu. This is the details about the 2024 Kamika Ekadashi Date Puja Timings in brief.

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Chaturmas 2024 Start Date and End Date Puja Tithi