Aja Ekadashi: Do Ekadashi like this, you will get results like Ashwamedha Yagya

 

Do Aja Ekadashi like this, you will get results like Ashwamedha Yagya

Our scriptures contain descriptions of fasts and festivals that make various difficult tasks easier. One such fast is Aja Ekadashi.

This fast has been revered from the Satyug era to the Kaliyug. Today, we will learn how observing this Ekadashi can transform your life.

It is believed that Aja Ekadashi is so sacred that merely listening to its story on this day can yield results similar to performing the Ashwamedha Yagna.

King Harishchandra attained freedom from poverty by observing the Aja Ekadashi fast. King Harishchandra reclaimed his lost kingdom due to the effects of this fast.

To observe the Aja Ekadashi fast, you must first take a vow.

On this day, chanting "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya," reciting the Ram Raksha Stotra, Bhagavad Gita, and chanting the thousand names of Lord Rama is customary.

On Aja Ekadashi, devotees worship Lord Vishnu, seeking His blessings. This fast liberates devotees from fear of spirits and ghosts.

It is believed that observing this fast can lead to salvation. Listening to the Aja Ekadashi fast story and observing the fast itself can bring benefits equivalent to those of performing the Ashwamedha Yagna.

Here are some practices for Aja Ekadashi (Aja Ekadashi Upay):

Special Purchases: On the day of Aja Ekadashi, there is a conjunction of Ravi Pushya Yoga. Bringing clockwise conch shells, gold and silver items, and Shri Yantra into your home on this day is said to invite prosperity. These items are believed to bring long-lasting financial benefits.

Betel Leaves: On Aja Ekadashi, write "Shri" on betel leaves with red vermilion or kumkum, and offer them to Lord Vishnu. Then, offer coconut as a bhog (offering). It is said to enhance job opportunities and business growth and turn one's luck around.

Sandalwood and Saffron: In the scriptures, sandalwood and saffron are given special significance in the worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. On Aja Ekadashi, apply a tilak (mark) of Lord Vishnu on your forehead using a paste made from mixing saffron and yellow sandalwood powder. This practice is believed to bring success in all your endeavors and promote financial growth.

Seek Offspring: If you wish to have children, take a bath in the morning on Aja Ekadashi, wear yellow clothes if possible, perform the puja and meditation of Lord Hari Vishnu, and offer a garland of yellow flowers to Him. Chanting the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namah" during this time is said to increase the chances of having children.

Abhishek with Dakshinavarti Shankh: Dakshinavarti Shankh is considered the abode of Goddess Lakshmi. Therefore, on Aja Ekadashi, fill it with raw milk and saffron and perform an abhishek (ritual bath) of Lord Vishnu. This practice is believed to strengthen your financial position and ensure the presence of Goddess Lakshmi in your home.

Offer Water to the Peepal Tree: On Aja Ekadashi, offer water to the peepal tree and light a lamp there. The peepal tree is considered the abode of Lord Vishnu. This practice is believed to bring the blessings of Lord Vishnu, financial prosperity, and the fulfillment of desires."

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Aja Ekadashi 

What is Aja Ekadashi, and why is it significant? 

Aja Ekadashi is a sacred Hindu fast observed on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the lunar month. It is revered for its ability to bestow blessings and benefits similar to performing the Ashwamedha Yagna. It is believed to bring spiritual growth, prosperity, and protection from negative forces.

How do I take a vow to observe Aja Ekadashi? 

To observe Aja Ekadashi, one must first take a solemn vow (sankalp) to fast and follow the associated rituals on that day. The vow includes a commitment to refrain from certain foods and activities during the Ekadashi period.

What are the key rituals and practices associated with Aja Ekadashi?

 Some of the key rituals include chanting specific mantras, such as "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya," reciting sacred texts like the Ram Raksha Stotra and Bhagavad Gita, and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. Other practices include using special items like conch shells, betel leaves, sandalwood, and saffron for worship.

What are the benefits of observing Aja Ekadashi?

Aja Ekadashi is believed to offer various benefits, including spiritual growth, protection from malevolent spirits, financial prosperity, and fulfillment of desires. It is also considered a means to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi for overall well-being.

Is there a specific time or date for Aja Ekadashi each year? 

Aja Ekadashi falls on different dates each year based on the lunar calendar. It is essential to consult a Hindu calendar or a reliable source to determine the exact date of Aja Ekadashi for any given year. The practices associated with this Ekadashi are observed on that specific day.