Know the details about the Amalaki Ekadashi 2024 Date Time Fasting Procedure, How to do at home, Fasting Rules, Fasting breaking after Ekadashi and More.

Celebrating Amalaki Ekadashi 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Amalaki Ekadashi, also known as Amla Ekadashi, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated with great fervor all across India. It falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waxing moon phase in the month of Phalguna, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This auspicious day is dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu and the Amla tree, which is believed to be his divine abode. See below for the Amalaki Ekadashi 2024 Date Time Fasting Procedure in detail.

Amalaki Ekadashi 2024 Date Time Fasting Procedure

In 2024, Amalaki Ekadashi will be celebrated on March 16th. The exact timings for observing the fast are pinpointed based on the moon’s position, so it’s advisable to consult a local Hindu calendar or priest for precise timing.

Significance

The significance of Amalaki Ekadashi is rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, which state that observing a fast on this day can wash away one’s sins and lead to salvation. The Amla tree (Indian Gooseberry) is revered on this day because it is considered to be a manifestation of Lord Vishnu.

Fasting Procedure & Rules

Step by Step Guide

Preparation Start your preparations a day before Ekadashi. Clean your house and especially the area where you’ll perform the puja. If you have an Amla tree nearby, clean the area around it too.

Fast Begin On Ekadashi, wake up early in the morning, preferably during Brahma Muhurta (around 4 am). Take a bath and wear clean clothes. The fast begins at sunrise and continues till the next morning.

Puja Prepare a small altar and place an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu. If you have an Amla tree, perform the puja under it. Otherwise, you can keep an Amla fruit on a copper vessel in front of the deity.

Offerings Light a lamp using cow’s ghee and incense sticks. Offer yellow flowers, tulsi leaves, fruits, and sweets to Lord Vishnu. Read or listen to Amalaki Ekadashi Vrat Katha (story).

Fast End On the next day, known as Dwadashi, the fast is broken after sunrise. Pray to Lord Vishnu, offer food to a Brahmin, and then break your fast by eating the prasad.

Fasting Rules

• Maintain celibacy during the fasting period.
• Avoid consumption of grains, beans, cereals, certain vegetables like onions and certain spices.
• You can consume fruits, nuts, and milk products.
• Avoid sleeping in the afternoon and stay awake as much as possible.
• Engage in prayers, bhajans, and mantra chanting.

Breaking the Fast After Ekadashi

The fast is broken the next morning (Dwadashi) after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. It’s important to feed a Brahmin before breaking the fast. The fast is typically broken with light food like fruits or food made without grains.

FAQ

1. Can I drink water during the fast? Yes, you can drink water during the fast.

2. What if I can’t stay awake the whole night? While it’s ideal to stay awake, it’s not compulsory. The key is to engage in devotional activities as much as possible.

3. Can I eat salt during the fast? Rock salt (sendha namak) can be consumed during the fast. Regular salt should be avoided.

4. Can women observe this fast during their menstrual cycle? No, women are advised not to observe the fast during their menstrual cycle.

5. What if I accidentally break the fast? If the fast is broken accidentally, it should be observed again on the next Ekadashi.

Conclusion

Amalaki Ekadashi is a significant occasion for Hindu devotees. The day is marked with stringent fasting, prayers, and rituals, all aimed at seeking divine blessings and self-purification. While the rituals may seem demanding, the underlying principles of devotion, self-discipline, and respect for nature make this festival a spiritually enriching experience. This is the brief information about the Amalaki Ekadashi 2024 Date Time Fasting Procedure in detail.

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