Indira Ekadashi 2024: Date, Parana Time, Puja Rituals and the Legend of King Indrasen

Indira Ekadashi; A Day of Fasting, Devotion and Ancestor Worship during Pitru Paksha

Indira Ekadashi, observed on September 28, 2024, is a significant day in the Hindu calendar, especially as it coincides with Pitru Paksha—a period dedicated to remembering and paying homage to ancestors. This Ekadashi is devoted to Lord Vishnu and the rituals performed on this day are believed to bestow blessings, salvation, and spiritual benefits on both the devotees and their departed ancestors.

Indira Ekadashi Significance

Indira Ekadashi falls on the Ekadashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Ashwina month, making it one of the most auspicious days for fasting and devotion. Observing this fast is considered highly sacred, particularly during Pitru Paksha when ancestors are believed to descend from Pitru Loka to Earth for 16 days. By fasting and dedicating the observance to their ancestors, devotees seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for their own salvation and that of their forefathers.

Parana Time (Fast Breaking)

The fast is traditionally broken on the next day, Dwadashi Tithi, by consuming food after the prescribed rituals. The exact Parana time will depend on your local sunrise and Dwadashi timings.

The Legend of Indira Ekadashi

The legend of Indira Ekadashi is associated with King Indrasen of Mahishmati Nagar, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu. According to the tale, Devarshi Narada Muni visited the king’s court one day and informed him that while his kingdom thrived, his father was suffering in Yamaloka due to past sins. Narada advised King Indrasen to observe the Indira Ekadashi fast to liberate his father’s soul from suffering.

Following Narada’s guidance, King Indrasen took a holy bath, performed Shradh for his ancestors and fasted on Ekadashi, worshipping Lord Vishnu with dedication. As a result, his father’s soul attained salvation and King Indrasen himself was blessed to ascend to heaven after his death.

Puja Rituals for Indira Ekadashi

• Morning Bath and Cleanse: Wake up early and take a holy bath before starting the puja rituals.

• Clean the House: Especially ensure the cleanliness of the puja room.

• Setup the Altar: Place an idol or image of Lord Vishnu, light a lamp with desi ghee, and offer garlands, fruits, Tulsi leaves, and homemade sweets.

• Prepare Sattvik Food: Offer the food to Brahmins, cows, crows, dogs, and ants as part of the ritual.

• Recite Scriptures: Chant verses from the Bhagavad Gita and perform a Gayatri Path if possible.

• Avoid Plucking Tulsi Leaves: It is prohibited to pluck Tulsi leaves on this day; use leaves plucked the previous day.

• Breaking the Fast: Break your fast on Dwadashi Tithi with light, sattvik food.

Mantras to Recite

• Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

• Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva

• Ram Ram Rameti Rame Raame Manorame Sahasranam Tatulyam Ram Naam Varanane

Ekadashi 2024: Date and Time

Ekadashi Tithi Begins – September 27, 2024 at 01:20 PM

Ekadashi Tithi Ends – September 28, 2024 at 02:49 PM

Parana Time – September 29, 2024 – September 29, 2024 – From 05:37 A.M. 08:01 AM

Dwadashi End Moment – September 29, 2024 – 04:47 PM

Indira Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting but a profound opportunity to seek spiritual elevation and ancestral blessings. Observing the rituals with devotion and purity is believed to bring immense benefits, granting peace and liberation to the souls of the departed