The Ekadashi of Bhadrapad Shukla Paksha is known as Padma Ekadashi. In 2024, it will be observed on 14th September On this day, the Vamana incarnation of Lord Vishnu is worshipped by the devotees. Observing this fast increases the happiness and fortune in a person’s life. It is believed that, Mata Yashoda had washed the clothes of Lord Krishna on this day. Hence, this Ekadasi is also called as the ‘Jal Jhulni Ekadashi’.
On this day,Lord Vishnu is seated in a Palki and Shobha Yatra is carried on. The idol of Lord Vishnu is made to have a bath outside the temple. On this occasion huge crowd of people gather to worship the idol of Lord Vishnu. Fast is observed and Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this Ekadashi.
Jal Jhulni Ekadashi Puja
On this day the puja is performed with flowers, dhoop, deep , rice etc. On the first date of this fasts, seven earthen pots are established. These seven urns are filled with seven type of cereals. The seven cereals are- wheat, Urad, Mong, gram, barley, rice and Masoor. On the day before Ekadashi, that is Dashmi Tithi, none of these cereals are eaten
The idol of Lord Vishnu is then placed on the urn and worshipped by the observer. After observing this fast, Jagran of Vishnu Path is performed at night. This fast begins from Dashmi tithi and concluded on Dwadashi (a day after Ekadashi). Hence, the time span of this fast is longer in comparison to others. After observing fast for the whole day on Ekadashi, a pitcher full of cereals is donated to Brahman on the morning of Dwadashi.
Dol Gyaras
Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is also called the Dol Gyaras Ekadashi, in Rajasthan. On this day, Lord Ganapati is worshipped here and the idol of Goddess Gori is established. On this occasion, many fairs are organised. At this time, God and Goddess of the temple are taken near river or pond and worshipped. These idols are taken back in the evening and various Shobha Yatras are made. In which, devotees sing Bhajans, devotional songs, perform Kirtans with a happy mood.
An environment of devotion and excitement is created by the Bhajans and drums etc.
Significance of Padma Ekadashi
As per the legend, a King of Suryavanshi, Mandhata was blessed all the pleasures of life. People used to live happily in his kingdom. A time came when the kingdom did not receive any rain for three years. The condition got worse with the time. The king went to seek help from Lord Vishnu and requested him to provide his kingdom relief from this wrath. Lord asks the king to observe Shukla Paksha Ekadashi.
As a result of the fast, the kingdom was filled with joy and prosperity. Hence, a person who observes the fast must donate as per his potency.