The last Ekadashi (11th day) in Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Ashada, is observed as Kamika Ekadashi.
Fasting and observing rituals of Ekadashi on this day bestows benefits equivalent of performing a Rajasuya Ashwameda Vajpeya Yaga (used to be performed in earlier times by Kings for fertility, power and peace in the Kingdom). It also blesses the devotee who is unable to complete important tasks due to some obstacle or hindrances. Observing Kamika Ekadashi would ensure completion of such tasks to fruition.
One of the significant benefits is explained by Bhagwan Shri Krishna Himself as answer to question posed by Yudhishtra. Bhagwan Shri Krishna explains, “This legend is originally related by Brahma himself to his son Devarshi Narada. It is a solution to all those who have accrued any type of sins. Those who observe fast and worship Bhagwan Vishnu with Tulsi patra (leaves) will be redeemed of all sins, renders the soul pure and paves way for liberation. Brahma Dosha or Brahmana Hatya Paapa – Sin of killing a Brahmin by anyone in previous or current generation in the family, will be redeemed and the devotee will be freed of the consequences. It also frees the devotee from any Pitru Dosha”
Brahma continues, “Kamika Ekadashi fasting is equivalent to visiting Kashi and also bathing in Ganga Maa. The Vrati or Devotee thus has to observe the day with cleanest of heart, free of lust or greed or pride for deriving the benefit”
Legend
There lived a short-tempered and arrogant landlord in a small village. Once he had a fight with the Brahmin of that village and in a fit of rage strikes a blow on his head resulting in the death of the Brahmin. Then he repented and wanted to be a part of his Shradhha Karma (last rites), which the villagers refused. The landlord was deeply hurt by this and approached a visiting Rishi and seeks his advise on the prayashchitta (atonement) for the sin that he had commited by killing a Brahmin. Rishi advised him to observe a fast and worship Bhagwan Vishnu on Kamika Ekadashi. That night when he slept beside Vishnu’s Murti, who sees that the man is truly repentive and seeks sincere atonement, relieves him of his sins.
Vrata and Puja Vidhana
Wake up early in the morning and have a water-only bath (no use of any shampoo or soap or any other such cosmetic products).
Ensure you don’t commit any act hereon that can be considered impure (in deed or thought)
Offer Puja to Bhagwan Vishnu with Tulsi leaves
Pay your respects to Parents and other Elders, especially Guru
Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Shri Rama Raksha Stotra, and Aranya Kanda of Srimad Ramayana
Make a donation (in cash or kind to a Brahmin)
Do not consume any staple food (Upavas food is allowed)
Continue the fasting until next day (Dwadashi) and do the Parana (breaking of fast at sunrise, ensure it is Dwadashi tithi)
Om Namo Narayana