यस्य स्मरणमात्रेण जन्मसंसारबन्धनात् ।
विमुच्यते नमस्तस्मै विष्णवे प्रभविष्णवे ॥
Vijaya Ekadashi occurs during Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of Phalguna month (February-March) according to Amanta calendar or Magha month according to Purnimanta calendar. It is sacred occasion coming just before Maha Shivaratri, dedicated to worshiping Lord Ramachandra incarnation of Bhagawan Vishnu. Devotees observe this fast to achieve victory over difficult circumstances, conquer internal enemies, wash away past sins, and secure spiritual progress.
Meaning and Significance of Vijaya Ekadashi
In Sanskrit, Vijaya means supreme victory, triumph, or success over formidable obstacles. Therefore, Vijaya Ekadashi translates to 11th day that grants victory in all noble and righteous endeavors.
Human life frequently encounters difficult challenges, spiritual doubts, and heavy karmic burdens. Observing fast on Vijaya Ekadashi with total faith generates divine power to overcome insurmountable difficulties. Scriptures mention that sincere devotion on this day grants success in difficult tasks, purifies subtle body from past sins, bestows peace of mind, and guides devotee towards ultimate liberation or Moksha.
Legend associated with Vijaya Ekadashi
Scriptures describe sacred story narrated by Brahma to Sage Narada, involving Shri Ramachandra during Treta Yuga. When Devi Sita was abducted by demon king Ravana, Shri Rama along with brother Lakshmana and Vanara army reached shores of vast ocean, searching for way to reach Lanka.
Facing vast roaring ocean, Shri Rama asked Lakshmana for guidance on how army could cross deep waters. Lakshmana reminded Shri Rama about great Sage Bakadalabhya, who lived in ashram nearby. Shri Rama visited ashram of Sage Bakadalabhya and asked for spiritual remedy to cross ocean and conquer evil demon Ravana.
Sage Bakadalabhya instructed Shri Rama to observe fast on Krishna Paksha Ekadashi of Phalguna month, known as Vijaya Ekadashi, along with his commanders and army. Sage explained complete ritual, instructing to establish golden or brass pot filled with water and seven grains, place image of Bhagawan Vishnu on top, and observe strict fast with continuous devotion.
Shri Rama strictly observed Vijaya Ekadashi fast along with Lakshmana and entire Vanara army following holy instructions. By divine merit and spiritual energy of Vijaya Ekadashi fast, way was made across ocean, bridge Ram Setu was constructed successfully, and Shri Rama defeated Ravana in grand battle, rescuing Devi Sita and establishing Dharma.
Rituals to be performed on Vijaya Ekadashi
Devotee must wake up early in morning during Brahma Muhurta and take ritual bath using clean water without using soap, shampoo, or such cosmetic products.
Puja area should be cleaned thoroughly and sacred Kalash (pot filled with water, covered with leaves and coconut) should be established. Place idol or photo of Bhagawan Vishnu or Shri Rama on top or near Kalash respectfully.
Light ghee lamp, offer fresh yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, incense, seven grains (Saptadhanya), and Tulsi leaves to Bhagwan Vishnu.
Chant Vishnu Sahasranama, Hare Krishna Mahamantra, Ram Raksha Stotram, or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya continuously throughout day.
Listen to or read Vijaya Ekadashi Katha with family members in peaceful state of mind.
Offer your respects to parents and other elders, especially Guru, seeking their heartfelt blessings on this sacred morning.
Observe fast during entire day according to individual health capacity. Healthy individuals can observe strict fast without water or taking only water. Milk, curd, and fruits can be consumed if complete fasting is difficult due to health reasons. Rice, wheat, barley, lentils, pulses, and all food grains must be avoided strictly. Heavy spices, regular salt, garlic, onion, tea, coffee, outside processed food, and alcohol must be strictly avoided.
Perform evening Aarti with devotion, offer special Naivedya to Bhagwan Vishnu, donate water pot or grains to deserving Brahmin or needy person, and maintain noble thoughts, avoiding anger, backbiting, falsehood, or harsh speech.
Break fast next day on Dwadashi tithi during scheduled Parana time. Fast should be broken after sunrise once Hari Vasara period concludes. Offer naivedya to Bhagwan Vishnu, perform short prayer, and break fast by consuming prasada, water, or fruits before eating regular food.