By Pt. Amitabh Sharma
Discover how the story of Yogini Ekadashi guides the soul towards redemption and liberation
Yogini Ekadashi is one of the most revered Ekadashis in Hinduism, considered to be a path to liberation and the destruction of sins. It is observed on the Ekadashi tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashadha. This fast is not only a means to free oneself from worldly bondage but also an extraordinary tool for spiritual purification, health and prosperity. Understanding the mythological story of Yogini Ekadashi, its Vedic significance and its astrological impact is highly beneficial for every seeker.
In ancient times, there was a city named Alkapuri, ruled by King Kuber, a devoted follower of Lord Shiva. His servant, Hemamali, had the task of bringing flowers from Lake Manasarovar for Lord Shiva’s daily worship. Hemamali’s wife, Vishalakshi, was exceptionally beautiful. One day, Hemamali became so enamored with her that he forgot to bring the flowers for the worship. When King Kuber found out, he cursed Hemamali to suffer from separation from his wife and live in the mortal world afflicted by leprosy.
As a result of Kuber’s curse, Hemamali fell from heaven to Earth and became afflicted with leprosy. His wife also separated from him. Struggling with the hardships of life, Hemamali set out towards the Himalayas, where he reached the ashram of the great sage Markandeya. The sage, after learning about his condition, asked, "Why have you suffered like this?" Hemamali recounted his entire story and asked for a solution to his plight.
Rishi Markandeya advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi fast. He said, "If you observe the Yogini Ekadashi with faith and discipline, all your sins will be destroyed and you will be freed from this disease." Hemamali followed the sage’s instructions, observed the fast, worshiped Lord Vishnu and chanted the mantras. As a result, his leprosy was cured, he reunited with his wife and he regained his place in heaven. This story shows that the Yogini Ekadashi fast is a path to not just physical well-being but also mental and spiritual welfare.
The importance of Yogini Ekadashi is elaborated in the Padma Purana, Brahma Vaivarta Purana and Skanda Purana. According to the scriptures, the merit of this fast is equivalent to feeding 88,000 Brahmins. This fast is especially recommended for those suffering from diseases, poverty, mental unrest or the burden of sins. On this day, even though Lord Vishnu remains in Yoga Nidra, he listens to the calls of his devotees and removes the hardships from their lives.
This story also teaches us that neglecting one’s duties, no matter how small, can lead to significant obstacles in life. However, through repentance, devotion and fasting, any seeker can atone for their sins and receive divine grace.
In Vedic astrology, the Ekadashi tithi holds great significance. It is believed that the positions of the moon and the sun on Ekadashi day have a profound effect on the seeker’s mind and soul. Observing a fast and performing worship on Yogini Ekadashi purifies the mind, calms the malefic effects of planets and especially mitigates the afflictions caused by Shani, Rahu and Ketu. This fast helps remove negative energy, enhancing positivity and spiritual energy, leading to a balanced and prosperous life.
The story of Yogini Ekadashi is not just a mythological tale but a profound message for every seeker. It teaches us to remain vigilant in our duties, adhere to righteousness in time and seek refuge in God even in times of difficulty. When darkness clouds life, the Yogini Ekadashi fast becomes a beacon of hope, strength and divinity. This fast teaches us that through repentance, faith and devotion, even the greatest of sins can be washed away and a new life can be attained with divine grace.
Yogini Ekadashi’s story and its observance are not only impactful from a religious perspective but also hold great astrological and spiritual importance. This fast frees the seeker from sins and paves the way for peace, prosperity and liberation. By observing Yogini Ekadashi with faith, discipline, proper worship, mantra chanting and charity, every devotee is sure to receive special blessings from Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. This day offers an opportunity for the elevation of the soul, family happiness and overcoming every obstacle in life-observe Yogini Ekadashi with devotion and trust.
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