Observing Ekadashi fast is considered to be one of the most important fast in ancient scriptures. Ekadashi fast inspire people to walk on the path of salvation and culture. Rama Ekadashi fast is one of Ekadashi fasts observed in hindu culture. The fast of Rama Ekadashi is observed on Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha, Kartik Masa. In the year 2024, Rama Ekadashi will be on 28 November. On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped and reading Bhagwad Gita is considered to be auspicious.
Historical Significance of Rama Ekadashi
As per the legends, there ruled a king named Muchukund. His friends included Indra, Varuna, Kuber etc. He was an honest person and a great devotee of Lord Vishnu. No evil work happened in his kingdom. A baby girl was born in his house. She was named Chadrabhaga. Later. the king married the girl to Shobhan, son of king Chandrasen.
Once on Ekadashi, Chandrabhaga was at her parents-in-laws house. She followed the tradition on fasting on Ekadasi. Her husband thought, he was physically weak and may not be able to keep the fast. So, he refused to observe the fast. On this, Chandrabhaga got upset.
She asked her husband to go to some other place if he wants to have food. She said, “If you will stay here, you will have to observe the fast.” Hearing this, Shobhan said “then I will stay here only and observe the fast.”
He observed the fast of Ekadashi and died from hunger and thirst. By the effect of Rama Ekadashi, Shobhan got a great kingdom. But, this kingdom was invisible. It was a unique kingdom. Once, a Brahman of his wife’s kingdom went out to travel. He saw the kingdom of Shobhan, on his way. And Shobhan told him, that by the grace of Rama Ekadashi, he received this kingdom. He asked the Brahmin to tell about him and this kingdom to her wife. Brahman returned and told Chandrabhaga about the whole thing. Chandrabhaga had been observing the fast of Ekadashi since, her childhood. By the effect of all Ekadashi, she turned the kingdom of her husband, into a reality. And, started living with her husband in a divine form.
Result of Rama Ekadashi Fast
The Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha, Kartik Masa is called Rama Ekadashi. This Ekadashi is also called Rambha Ekadashi. By observing this fast, all sins of a person are removed. A person can even get rid of sin like Brahmhatya and get results equivalent to that of Vajepaye yagya.
Those suffering from troubles and obstacles of life must worship Lord Vishnu to get relief from their troubles. Offering Tulsi leaves to the lord on this Ekadashi removes all the past sins of a person’s life. Lord Vishnu gets pleased with gemstones, mani, pearl etc.