Culture & Festivals

Conjectures, Compensation & Vindication: Art of Living’s WCF vs. NGT’s Flop Show

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A maxi post, actually too small considering my standard and what is really on my mind which would be unparliamentary to express it

When Pujya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji and Art of Living announced World Culture Festival in March 2016, it brought together over 3.75 million people from 155 countries on Yamuna bank in Delhi. It was an unprecedented gathering of global unity, peace, and harmony to celebrate 35 years of humanitarian service.

Yet, almost instantly, a group of obstructionist activists, vested interests, and pliable media outlets launched campaign to smear event and defame Pujya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji. Armed with unfounded allegations, they claimed that temporary event caused catastrophic environmental damage to Yamuna floodplains.

What followed was saga of regulatory overreach, unscientific claims, and institutional bias, culminating in total vindication when Supreme Court stepped in to uphold justice.

Anatomy of Calculated Smear Campaign

Narrative against World Culture Festival was built not on scientific methodology, but on sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims. Activists and certain media outlets pushed doom and gloom narrative, claiming that floodplains were permanently destroyed.

When National Green Tribunal (NGT) set up (a suspect) Expert Committee to assess site, irregularities became undeniable. Initial claim that event caused 120 crore rupees in irreversible damage was made without any baseline scientific studies, soil testing, or formal measurements.

Chairman of Expert Committee and Water Resources Secretary Shashi Shekhar later admitted in letter to NGT that 120 crore rupees figure was merely tentative and spontaneous suggestion that became elevated to recommendation due to inadvertent mistake. As independent satellite imageries proved that no natural wetlands existed at event site prior to 2016, committee drastically revised damage figures downward from 120 crore rupees to 13.29 crore rupees, changing its stance from permanent destruction to rehabilitation within 10 years.

Despite these glaring contradictions, Art of Living was forced to deposit environmental compensation amount under protest to ensure event proceeded without disruption.

Pictures and Facts Show Real Story

Claims of environmental destruction fell apart when subjected to empirical data. Independent satellite imagery dating from 2000 through 2016 and official Survey of India maps confirmed several critical facts.

Site used for World Culture Festival had no natural wetland or water body to begin with. It was agricultural land and dry plain long before 2016. Art of Living constructed temporary pontoon bridges which were dismantled immediately after event, alongside temporary eco-friendly seating. No paved roads or permanent concrete foundations were laid on floodplains.

Yamuna’s toxic state was result of decades of industrial discharge and untreated sewage. Blaming three day cultural festival for long standing ecological neglect was transparent attempt to scapegoat world renowned spiritual organization. Ironically, Art of Living had already been working actively to clean and rejuvenate rivers across India, including Yamuna itself in 2010 long before these activists took interest in riverbank.

Pattern of Targeted Overreach

Bias was not limited to Delhi event. Similar pattern emerged in Kolkata, where NGT and East Kolkata Wetlands Management Authority arbitrarily ordered demolition of Vaidic Dharma Sansthan Trust’s Temple of Knowledge building without even serving notice to trust.

While hundreds of commercial structures, private projects, and government flyovers were permitted on wetlands, non-profit educational building that strictly complied with all land use and municipal norms was selectively targeted.

Supreme Court Verdict and Final Vindication

Lies or Incompetence Never ages well – NGT exposed

Truth may be delayed, but it cannot be defeated. When matter reached Supreme Court of India, legal edifice built on conjectures, media trial, and flawed committee reports fell apart completely.

Recognizing lack of scientific evidence and procedural unfairness of demands imposed on Art of Living, Supreme Court ordered that deposit made under protest be returned to organization. Supreme Court order served as decisive rejection of narrative spun by vested interests.

It confirmed that allegations of permanent destruction were grounded in speculation rather than scientific truth. Returning money deposited under protest acknowledged that Art of Living was wrongfully penalized, fully restoring honor and integrity of Pujya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji and Art of Living in eyes of law. Ultimately, noise of conjectures and lies faded, leaving behind enduring truth of Satyameva Jayate.

Detailed Observations of Supreme Court

Supreme Court of India set aside National Green Tribunal order holding Art of Living Foundation responsible for environmental damage on Yamuna floodplain. Top court directed Delhi Development Authority to refund entire five crore deposit given under protest within four weeks. Decision stands as complete vindication for Pujya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji and millions of volunteers across world. Entire campaign alleging ecological devastation was based on lies, conjectures and selective outrage.

Conjectures and Speculation Exposed

Apex court bench observed that claims of permanent environmental damage lacked solid evidence. Court noted that National Green Tribunal failed to consider existing condition of site which was already littered with construction waste and debris before event setup. Further, no baseline scientific data was gathered to prove net environmental harm caused by three day event. Arbitrary visual estimations were used to demand hefty fines without scientific methodology. Pujya Gurudev always maintained that organisation brought international attention and positive care to river which was neglected for decades.

Refund of Security Deposit

When five crore penalty was imposed in 2016, Art of Living paid sum under protest while reserving right to seek legal remedies. Foundation maintained clean record and refused to accept wrongful guilt. Supreme Court order instructing full refund clears organisation of false allegations and restores truth.

Legacy of World Culture Festival

World Culture Festival brought together over three million participants and thousands of global leaders to promote peace and harmony. Event showcased rich Indian heritage on global stage. Unfair media trials and activist propaganda attempted to tarnish noble work, but ultimate judicial verdict proved that truth always prevails – Satyameva Jayate

Institutional Reality of NGT

This entire saga exposes broader fundamental issue with National Green Tribunal. NGT has reduced itself to redundant administrative entity, operating with minimal accountability while routinely substituting sound scientific rigor with guesswork. Rather than serving authentic environmental conservation, tribunal has largely functioned as post-retirement rehabilitation center for former judges and favored bureaucrats close to establishment. When regulatory forum bypasses basic principles of natural justice, relies on unverified committee estimates, and ignores actual empirical facts, it loses credibility as forum for justice. Whole WCF episode remains stark reminder that institutional overreach built on conjectures will eventually crumble when tested in highest courts of land.

Personal Reflection: Words That Defined Victory

With despair, I still remember the glee with which Rajdeep Sardesai, Zakka Jacob kept posting when it began raining just before the event, little knowing that it was nature washing them off. It did not take long for the nature to present us, the now famous World Culture Festival Rainbow. Meeting that wannabe Vimlendu Jha with handful of so called whole of Delhi protestors. In fact, I offered to hold a placard on his behalf since he had more of it than people.

And wait for a somersault
Now he began sucking up – He remembered the #CNNIBNLies Episode

Post event, after spending entire time inside war room watching the onslaught of media trials and legal battles with despair, I had opportunity to be in discussion with Pujya Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji in Ganga just before Satsang. Having lived through intense stress and emotional turmoil of entire WCF episode, I could not help but get emotional describing everything that had transpired.

Famous WCF Rainbow

Gurudev listened calmly, offering His customary serene smile, warm hug, and gentle pat on back. His words in that heavy moment put everything into perspective:

“Remember, world owes nothing to us, even if we have done most useful and best thing to world. In entire episode, barring a few expected obstructionists, not a single person accused us of any malafides. Consider that itself as victory. Stay strong and don’t get despondent or despair, Rest assured, we will win. Every single paisa paid under protest will be returned to us. Now, get back to work, bring smile on your face and bring it on everyone around you.”

Looking back today, after Supreme Court ordered return of deposit, those words stand as prophecy fulfilled. Beyond legal victory, it was lesson in grace under pressure, unwavering faith, and ultimate triumph of truth. Jai Gurudev.

My Earlier Articles calling NGT bluff

(It is listed in Reverse order of publication)

NGT – Not Good Try Again
Phas gaye re NGT – #TruthWillPrevail
Pictures & Facts Don’t Lie – #WCF2016
PALS and Art of Living – Part 2
PALS and Art of Living – Part 1
NGT Committee as (Im)Perfect Weapon
WCF (W)ith (C)ompliments (F)rom – India
Part of Ecology – Protect, Preserve & Conserve – Part 2
Critic or Profiteering – For Anti WCF Brigade – Part 1

Jai Gurudev! Satyameva Jayate

For those interested in legal summary of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s Judgement on 22nd August 2026

The Supreme Court of India set aside the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) 2017 judgment that held Vyakti Vikas Kendra India (Art of Living) liable for environmental damage to the Yamuna floodplains during the 2016 World Culture Festival.

Key Case Details

  • Case: Vyakti Vikas Kendra India v. Manoj Misra (Dead) & Ors. (Civil Appeal No. 683 of 2018)
  • Bench: Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh
  • Date of Judgment: August 22, 2026

Core Findings of the Supreme Court

  • Lack of Causal Link: The Court observed that the NGT failed to establish a direct link between the event organized by the appellant and the alleged environmental degradation.
  • Pre-Existing Damage: Substantial evidence and prior reports established that the Yamuna floodplain was already severely damaged, degraded, and littered with construction debris well before the land was handed over for the event.
  • Flawed NGT Proceedings: The NGT relied heavily on an interim visual inspection and satellite images without properly evaluating counter-evidence. The Court noted that the NGT erroneously treated its interim findings as final, denying the appellant a fair chance to contest them.
  • Restoration vs. Rehabilitation: The NGT exceeded its statutory jurisdiction under Section 15 of the NGT Act by demanding complete “rehabilitation” and forcing the appellant to fund long-term development (such as a Biodiversity Park), rather than limiting its scope to “restoration” to the site’s pre-event condition.
  • No-Fault Liability Misapplied: The Court held that principles like “polluter pays” or “no-fault liability” cannot be applied without proving that real, attributable damage was caused by the party in question.

Final Directions

  • Judicial Relief: The NGT judgment dated December 7, 2017, and all consequential actions against the appellant were set aside.
  • Refund of Deposit: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) was directed to refund the ₹5 crore environmental compensation deposited by the appellant within four weeks.
  • DDA’s Role: While criticizing the DDA for granting permissions without proper caution, the Court reiterated that the responsibility for overall rehabilitation and ecological maintenance of the Yamuna floodplains remains solely with the DDA as per earlier judicial directions.

Below is the Final Judgement/Order

NGT-VVKI Judgement 22-Aug-2026Download

Unlocking All Ekadashis : Legends, Meanings, and Rituals

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This article is a consolidation and single ready-reckoner of all 24 Ekadashis (26 in case of Adhika Maasa year) capturing summaries of all my individual Ekadashi related articles based on request by a regular visitor and reader of my articles on this blog site. You can search for article about any particular Ekadashi on this site, in case you want to read more about it.

An Ekadashi is eleventh lunar day of fortnight in Hindu calendar. Two Ekadashis occur every month, one during Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) and one during Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight).

Usually, there are 24 Ekadashis in a standard year. However, during Adhik Maas (or Purushottam Maas), two extra Ekadashis occur, making total count 26. Each Ekadashi carries unique name, deep spiritual significance, ancient legend, and specific rituals for devotees. You can click on the names of each Ekadashi (sub-heading) to read more about the specific ekadashi

Ekadashis of Chaitra Month (March–April)

Papamochani Ekadashi

Significance: Word Papamochani translates to remover of all sins and negative karmic burdens. Fasting on this day helps clear past misdeeds, relieves guilt, and brings inner peace.

Legend: Ancient story tells of sage Medhavi, who was meditating in forest when beautiful apsara named Manjughosha captivated him. Sage lost track of time and spent years in worldly pleasures. Realizing his mistake, sage became furious and cursed Manjughosha to become ugly hag. When she begged for forgiveness, sage advised her to observe Papmochani Ekadashi fast. Both observed fast with pure devotion, and sage as well as apsara were freed from curse and sins.

Rituals: Devotees wake up early during Brahma Muhurta, take holy bath, and light lamp in front of Bhagwan Vishnu. Yellow flowers, Tulsi leaves, and fruits are offered. Devotees chant Vishnu Sahasranama throughout day and donate food or clothes to needy.

Kamada Ekadashi

Significance: Kamada means fulfilling all genuine desires. Observing this fast helps clear spiritual obstacles, grants wishes, and cleanses soul from heavy family curses or inherited karma.

Legend: In kingdom of Ratnapura, lived Gandharva couple named Lalit and his wife Lalita. Lalit was court singer. One day while singing in palace of King Pundarika, Lalit became distracted thinking about his wife and missed beat. King became enraged and cursed Lalit to turn into monstrous demon. Distressed Lalita searched forest for cure and met sage Shringi. Sage advised her to observe Kamada Ekadashi fast. Lalita observed strict fast and offered all spiritual merit to her husband, instantly restoring him to his original form.

Rituals: Fast starts on Dashami night by eating light meal. On Ekadashi, devotees maintain complete or partial fast, avoiding grains and pulses. Worship includes offering sandalwood paste, incense, and fresh fruits to Bhagwan Vishnu, followed by reciting Ekadashi katha.

Ekadashis of Vaishakha Month (April–May)

Varuthini Ekadashi

Significance: Varuthini Ekadashi offers divine protection from physical ailments, evils, and bad fortune. It is believed that observing Varuthini Ekadashi brings rewards equivalent to donating gold or performing penance for thousands of years.

Legend: King Mandhata once asked Shri Krishna about glory of Varuthini Ekadashi. Shri Krishna narrated story of King Dhundhumara, who was once cursed by Bhagwan Shiva due to disrespect and turned into lame, bedridden man. Devastated king was advised by royal priests to observe Varuthini Ekadashi fast. By strictly following rituals, king regained his strength, body, and prosperity, finally attaining heaven after death.

Rituals: Devotees fast by consuming only milk or fruits once a day if full fast is not possible. Avoid oil, meat, lentils, and grains completely. Devotees perform charity, specifically donating water, umbrella, or footwear during hot summer season.

Mohini Ekadashi

Significance: Mohini Ekadashi marks day when Bhagwan Vishnu assumed his enchanting Mohini avatar. Observing fast on this day helps devotees break free from attachment, worldly illusions, and path of delusion.

Legend: During Samudra Manthan (churning of cosmic ocean), divine Amrit (nectar of immortality) emerged. Demons stole nectar to rule universe. Bhagwan Vishnu transformed into Mohini, most captivating woman, and tricked demons into letting her distribute nectar. She cleverly fed entire Amrit to Devas, saving universe from evil dominance. Fasting on this day honors this divine intervention.

Rituals: Devotees offer sweet preparations, panchamrit, and Tulsi to Bhagwan Vishnu in form of Mohini. Devotees read or listen to Mohini avatar chapter from Bhagavata Purana and maintain peaceful, truthful mind throughout day.

Ekadashis of Jyeshtha Month (May–June)

Apara Ekadashi

Significance: Apara means limitless. This day is celebrated for granting limitless wealth, fame, prosperity, and absolution from severe negative karma.

Legend: Good and pious king named Mahidhwaja was murdered by his evil younger brother Vajradhwaja. Body was buried under banyan tree, and spirit became tormented ghost trapped in tree. Sage Dhaumya passed by tree and saw ghost. Using divine vision, sage recognized king and brought spirit down. Sage then observed Apara Ekadashi fast on behalf of ghost king. Thanks to earned spiritual credit, king got freed from ghost form and reached heaven.

Rituals: Devotees wake up at dawn, take holy bath, and offer prayer to Shri Trivikrama (form of Bhagwan Vishnu). Fasting involves avoiding rice, non-veg, and salt. Special prayers are offered for ancestral peace.

Nirjala Ekadashi

Significance: Known as most rigorous Ekadashi, Nirjala means without water. Observing this single fast grants spiritual merits of all 24 Ekadashis combined.

Legend: Pandava brother Bhima was famous for his enormous appetite and could not control hunger, making it impossible to fast twice every month. Distressed Bhima approached sage Vyasa for solution. Sage advised him to observe Nirjala Ekadashi fast just once a year, where even drinking water is forbidden from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise on Dwadashi. Bhima successfully observed this tough fast, which is why it is also named Bhimseni Ekadashi.

Rituals: Devotees observe strict waterless fast for full 24 hours. Pots filled with sweet water, fans, clothes, and umbrellas are donated to brahmins and poor people. Fast is broken on next morning (Dwadashi) after offering prayers and drinking water with Tulsi.

Ekadashis of Ashadha Month (June–July)

Yogini Ekadashi

Significance: This fast is dedicated to curing severe physical ailments, skin diseases, and removing consequences of past bad actions, restoring vitality to body and mind.

Legend: In kingdom of Alakapuri, gardener named Hemmali was assigned duty to collect fresh flowers daily for king Kuber for worship of Bhagwan Shiva. Hemmali became deeply attached to his beautiful wife and neglected his duty, spending day with her instead. Furious Kuber cursed Hemmali with severe white leprosy and banished him from kingdom. Suffering immensely in forest, Hemmali met sage Markandeya, who guided him to observe Yogini Ekadashi fast. Upon completing fast, his body was completely healed, and he regained his normal life.

Rituals: Devotees perform morning abhishekam of Bhagwan Vishnu image with panchamrit. Fasting is observed with devotion. Offering fresh green leaves and flowers is considered highly auspicious on this day.

Devshayani Ekadashi

Significance: Devshayani Ekadashi marks beginning of Chaturmas (four holy months). On this day, Bhagwan Vishnu goes into divine yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on Sheshnag in cosmic ocean. Marriages and major worldly celebrations are paused during this four-month period.

Legend: Great king Mandhata once ruled kingdom that suffered severe three-year drought, leading to famine. King visited sage Angiras to seek solution. Sage advised king to observe Devshayani Ekadashi fast along with his citizens. King and his people observed fast with complete purity, resulting in immediate heavy rainfall and restoration of agriculture across kingdom.

Rituals: Devotees clean worship room and place Bhagwan Vishnu idol in small bed symbolizing his sleep. Devotees take vows (vrata) for four months of Chaturmas, such as giving up specific foods, practicing silence, or daily scripture reading.

Ekadashis of Shravana Month (July–August)

Kamika Ekadashi

Significance: Falling in auspicious month of Shravana, Kamika Ekadashi grants merit of visiting all sacred rivers and performing ashwamedha yajna. It protects devotees from negative influences and fulfills pure worldly desires.

Legend: Wealthy landlord in village accidentally killed local brahmin during fight. Desperate to repent for grave sin, landlord asked village sages how to make amends. Sages asked him to fast on Kamika Ekadashi and pray sincerely before Bhagwan Vishnu. While landlord was sleeping near idol on night of fast, Bhagwan Vishnu appeared, accepted his repentance, and freed him from guilt and karmic sin.

Rituals: Devotees worship Bhagwan Vishnu with milk, butter, and Tulsi leaves. Lighting sesame oil or ghee lamp in front of Bhagwan Vishnu and Tulsi plant throughout night brings endless blessings.

Shravana Putrada Ekadashi

Significance: Putrada means giver of children. Married couples facing difficulties in having offspring observe this fast to seek divine blessings for healthy, righteous, and long-lived children.

Legend: Kind King Suketuvarman ruled kingdom of Bhadravati with his queen Shaibya. Despite having everything, they were deeply sad because they had no children to carry forward lineage and perform ancestral rites. King wandered into forest in sorrow and found hermitage near lake where sages were chanting. Sages advised couple to observe Shravana Putrada Ekadashi fast. Couple observed fast strictly, and soon queen gave birth to noble son.

Rituals: Both husband and wife keep fast together. Bhagwan Vishnu in form of child (Balkrishna) is worshipped. Devotees offer sweets made of milk and lotus flowers while praying for family well-being.

Ekadashis of Bhadrapada Month (August–September)

Aja Ekadashi

Significance: Aja Ekadashi helps eliminate heavy karmic baggage, removes illusions, and restores lost happiness, dignity, or material status.

Legend: Legendary King Harishchandra, known for strict truthfulness, lost his entire kingdom, wealth, wife, and son due to cosmic test by sage Vishwamitra. King became lowly caretaker of cremation ground. Deeply pained, he met sage Gautama, who advised him to observe Aja Ekadashi fast. King followed instructions with complete devotion. As result, his past sins were erased, his dead son was restored to life, his kingdom was returned, and he was reunited with his queen.

Rituals: Devotees spend entire day in prayer, avoiding grains and salt. Night vigil (Jagran) is kept by singing bhajans and reading stories of Bhagwan Vishnu.

Parsva Ekadashi

Significance: Also known as Vamana Ekadashi or Jaljhulani Ekadashi. On this day, sleeping Bhagwan Vishnu changes his side from left to right during his cosmic slumber, making day spiritually charged.

Legend: Legend is tied to Bhagwan Vishnu taking Vamana avatar (dwarf brahmin) to humble King Bali. King Bali had conquered three worlds through power. Vamana approached King Bali during yajna and asked for three steps of land. Bali agreed. Vamana grew to giant cosmic form, covering earth with first step and sky with second step. For third step, King Bali offered his own head. Pleased with Bali’s devotion, Vamana made him ruler of underworld and promised to guard his realm.

Rituals: Devotees worship Vamana avatar with rice, curd, and sesame seeds. Idols of Bhagwan Vishnu are bathed, dressed in new clothes, and carried in festive processions near water bodies.

Ekadashis of Ashwin Month (September–October)

Indira Ekadashi

Significance: Indira Ekadashi falls during Pitru Paksha (fortnight of ancestors). Fasting on this day is dedicated to departed ancestors, helping them break free from suffering in lower realms and attain liberation.

Legend: King Indrasena ruled Mahishmati kingdom peacefully. One day, sage Narada visited king and brought message from king’s late father, who was stuck in Yamaloka (underworld) due to unresolved mistakes in past life. Narada advised king to observe Indira Ekadashi fast on Ashwin Krishna Paksha and offer earned merit to his father. King observed fast strictly with his family. Instantly, father was freed and ascended to Vaikuntha (heaven).

Rituals: Devotees perform ancestral rituals (Shradh), offer food to brahmins and cows, and maintain strict fast. Offering food to crows, dogs, and poor people on this day carries immense spiritual weight.

Papankusha Ekadashi

Significance: Word Ankusha means hook used to control wild elephants. Papankusha Ekadashi acts as spiritual hook that controls mind from committing sinful actions and purifies soul.

Legend: Ruthless hunter named Krodhana lived on Vindhyachal mountain, committing acts of cruelty, theft, and violence throughout life. As his death approached, he became terrified of messengers of Yama. Desperate, he rushed to ashram of sage Angiras for protection. Sage took pity on him and guided him to observe Papankusha Ekadashi fast. Hunter fasted with pure heart, and all his past sins were wiped out, granting him peaceful transition.

Rituals: Worship focuses on Padmanabha form of Bhagwan Vishnu (with lotus from navel). Devotees offer lotus flowers, fruits, and fragrant incense. Donating land, cows, or sesame seeds on this day brings great prosperity.

Ekadashis of Kartik Month (October–November)

Rama Ekadashi

Significance: Rama Ekadashi occurs just before Diwali festival. It is named after Maata Lakshmi (also known as Rama). Fasting on this day brings financial stability, harmony, and removal of obstacles from home.

Legend: Princess Chandrabhati, daughter of King Shobhana, was married to Prince Chandrasena, who was physically weak. Shobhana was strict practitioner of Ekadashi fasting and insisted everyone in kingdom fast. Weak prince observed Rama Ekadashi fast under pressure but died due to extreme weakness. However, due to merit of fast, prince was reborn as ruler of heavenly kingdom on Devagiri mountain. Queen Chandrabhati visited him later and used her own lifelong Ekadashi merit to make his heavenly kingdom permanent.

Rituals: Devotees worship both Maata Lakshmi and Bhagwan Vishnu together. Homes are decorated with lamps, and sweet offerings made from milk and ghee are presented during evening puja.

Devutthana Ekadashi

Significance: Also called Prabodhini Ekadashi or Devutthan Ekadashi. Bhagwan Vishnu wakes up from his four-month cosmic slumber on this day, concluding Chaturmas. Auspicious events like weddings, housewarmings, and thread ceremonies resume.

Legend: Bhagwan Vishnu’s sleep schedule was historically unpredictable, causing worry among Devas. Maata Lakshmi requested Bhagwan Vishnu to structure his sleep pattern so cosmos could function smoothly. Bhagwan Vishnu agreed, stating he would sleep continuously for four months during monsoon season from Devshayani to Devutthana, protecting world while lying on Sheshnag. Waking of Bhagwan Vishnu signifies awakening of wisdom and light in universe.

Rituals: Sugarcane structures are set up in courtyard. Footprints of Bhagwan Vishnu are drawn using rice paste. Sugarcane, sweet potatoes, water chestnuts, and seasonal fruits are offered. Tulsi Vivah (ceremonial marriage of Tulsi plant to Bhagwan Vishnu) is celebrated with great joy.

Ekadashis of Margashirsha Month (November–December)

Utpanna Ekadashi

Significance: Marks birthday or origin of Ekadashi as divine entity. Devotees who wish to begin annual Ekadashi fasting routine start their journey from Utpanna Ekadashi.

Legend: Terrifying demon named Mura defeated Devas and conquered heaven. Bhagwan Vishnu fought Mura for thousands of years. Exhausted during long battle, Bhagwan Vishnu retreated to cave in Badrikashram to rest. While Bhagwan was sleeping, Mura entered cave to strike him. Suddenly, divine female power emerged from body of Bhagwan Vishnu and annihilated demon Mura. Pleased Bhagwan Vishnu named her Ekadashi (as she appeared on 11th day) and granted boon that anyone fasting on her day would be freed from sins.

Rituals: Devotees wake up early, perform holy bath, and worship Bhagwan Vishnu and Maata Ekadashi. Only simple sattvik food or fruits are eaten after sunset if complete fast is not possible. Special charity is given to students and seekers.

Mokshada Ekadashi

Significance: Mokshada means giver of ultimate liberation (Moksha). Coincides with Gita Jayanti, day when Bhagwan Krishna delivered timeless teachings of Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna at Kurukshetra.

Legend: King Vaikhanasa once dreamed that his deceased father was suffering in hell. Distressed king consulted enlightened sage Parvat Muni. Sage revealed through meditation that king’s father had committed subtle karmic errors in past life. Sage advised king to observe Mokshada Ekadashi fast along with his entire royal family and transfer merit to his father. King followed advice, and his father was immediately liberated from hell, ascending to Vaikuntha.

Rituals: Devotees fast strictly, read complete Bhagavad Gita or specific chapters like Chapter 11 and 15, and distribute copies of Bhagavad Gita to seekers. Worship involves offering tulsi, dhoop, and lighting ghee lamps.

Ekadashis of Pausha Month (December–January)

Saphala Ekadashi

Significance: Saphala means successful. Fasting on this day turns stalled efforts into success, removes lethargy, and brings clarity and direction to life goals.

Legend: King Lumpaka, eldest son of King Mahishmati, was wicked man who disrespected scriptures and harmed poor citizens. King banished Lumpaka to forest. Living in forest, Lumpaka survived by stealing and eating raw fruits. On Pausha Krishna Dashami, he fell severely ill due to extreme cold and lost consciousness. He remained unconscious all night and whole day of Ekadashi, unintentionally fasting without food or water. When he regained consciousness, he unknowingly gathered wild fruits and offered them to Bhagwan Vishnu at base of banyan tree. This accidental fast cured his mind, transformed his personality, and restored his royal status.

Rituals: Devotees worship Bhagwan Vishnu by offering fresh winter fruits, betel leaves, and coconut. Staying awake at night (Jagran) and meditating on life choices forms crucial part of ritual.

Pausha Putrada Ekadashi

Significance: Second Putrada Ekadashi of year, falling in winter month of Pausha. It is observed by couples seeking child blessings, protection of existing children, and peace within family line.

Legend: King Suketuvarman story is remembered again during this season, emphasizing how constant devotion during both Shravana and Pausha Putrada Ekadashis opens divine blessings for childless couples. Another story recounts King Vaikuntha of Bhadravati observing this fast on advice of five holy sannyasis, leading to birth of brilliant prince.

Rituals: Special bath using sesame seeds and warm water. Offerings of yellow flowers, yellow sweets, and yellow clothes to Bhagwan Vishnu. Married couples perform combined puja and read Putrada Ekadashi Vrata Katha together.

Ekadashis of Magha Month (January–February)

Shattila Ekadashi

Significance: Word Shattila comes from six (Shat) distinct uses of sesame seeds (Til). Fasting on this day promotes physical health, removes financial poverty, and grants spiritual strength.

Legend: Rich woman performed extensive penance and fasting to please Bhagwan Vishnu. However, she never donated food or money to poor, lacking compassion. When she died, she reached heaven but found her house empty without any food or comfort. She asked Bhagwan Vishnu why this happened. Bhagwan Vishnu explained that without charity, fasting remains incomplete. He asked her to wait for celestial maidens to guide her on observing Shattila Ekadashi fast. She observed fast using sesame seeds in all rituals, and her house was instantly filled with food, wealth, and comfort.

Rituals: Sesame seeds are used in six specific ways:

  • Bathing water mixed with sesame seeds.
  • Applying sesame paste on body.
  • Offering sesame seeds in holy fire (Havan).
  • Offering sesame water to ancestors.
  • Eating sesame sweets.
  • Donating sesame seeds to needy.

Jaya Ekadashi

Significance: Jaya means victory. Fasting on Jaya Ekadashi helps devotees gain complete victory over negative thoughts, internal senses, bad habits, and external life challenges.

Legend: In court of Indra, Gandharva singer Malyavan and dancer Anangavati were performing. Both fell in love mid-performance, lost concentration, and ruined court music. Enraged Indra cursed both of them to fall from heaven and live as wretched goblins in freezing Himalayas. Suffering extreme cold and misery, couple forgot food and sleep on day of Magha Shukla Ekadashi. They unintentionally spent full day fasting under divine cold. Due to power of Jaya Ekadashi fast, their goblin form vanished, and they were restored to their original divine forms in heaven.

Rituals: Worship Bhagwan Vishnu with sandalwood, incense, and seasonal fruits. Fasting requires complete avoidance of grains and pulses. Devotees chant Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya continuously.

Ekadashis of Phalguna Month (February–March)

Vijaya Ekadashi

Significance: Vijaya Ekadashi brings victory over complex obstacles, formidable opponents, and seemingly impossible life situations.

Legend: When Bhagwan Rama was searching for Maata Sita, he reached shores of ocean with his Vanara army. Crossing vast ocean to reach Lanka seemed impossible. Sage Bakdalbhya advised Bhagwan Rama to observe Vijaya Ekadashi fast along with all army commanders. Bhagwan Rama followed ritual setup on ocean bank, keeping fast with devotion. Fast created spiritual energy that paved way for successful construction of Ram Setu bridge and ultimate victory over Ravana.

Rituals: Seven types of grains (barley, wheat, rice, corn, chickpeas, sesame, moong) are placed in decorative pot (Kalash). Idol of Bhagwan Vishnu is placed on top of pot and worshipped with lamps, flowers, and fruits. Pot is donated to brahmin on Dwadashi.

Amalaki Ekadashi

Significance: Amalaki refers to Amla (Indian gooseberry) tree. Amla is considered sacred because Bhagwan Vishnu and Maata Lakshmi reside in it. Worship on this day grants physical longevity, immunity, and spiritual purity.

Legend: King Chaitraratha ruled peaceful kingdom where all citizens regularly observed Ekadashi fasts. Once during Amalaki Ekadashi night, king and citizens were meditating near Amla tree in forest. Wicked hunter, who was murderer and thief, wandered by and sat down quietly due to hunger. Hunter observed night worship and listened to sacred holy stories without eating. Years later, hunter died and was reborn as King Vasuratha. One day, enemy soldiers attacked sleeping Vasuratha, but divine weapon emerged from his body and killed attackers. Vasuratha woke up safely and learned that his miraculous protection was result of listening to Amalaki Ekadashi prayers in his past life.

Rituals: Devotees perform puja directly under Amla tree or near Amla plant at home. Tree is watered, wrapped in sacred thread, and worshipped with flowers, incense, and lamps. Amla fruit is offered and consumed as prasad.

Additional Ekadashis during Adhik Maas (Leap Month)

Every three years, an extra month called Adhik Maas or Purushottam Maas is added to lunar calendar to match solar year. Two additional Ekadashis fall in this extra month.

Padmini Ekadashi

Significance: Padmini Ekadashi falls during Krishna Paksha of Adhik Maas. Observing this fast grants exceptional religious merit that exceeds performance of major sacrifices, purifying soul completely.

Legend: Great King Kartavirya Arjuna (Sahasrabahu) was born to King Kritavirya after long years of childlessness. Queen Padmini had performed severe penance on Anasuya’s advice during Adhik Maas, fasting strictly on this specific Ekadashi. Pleased Shri Dattatreya blessed couple with heroic son Sahasrabahu, who became so powerful that he even defeated powerful demon king Ravana in battle.

Rituals: Devotees perform 24-hour fast, worshipping Bhagwan Vishnu and Maata Radha-Krishna with lotus flowers, water offerings, and continuous chanting. Night vigil is observed with spiritual discourses.

Parama Ekadashi

Significance: Parama means ultimate or supreme. Fasting on this day removes severe poverty, grants spiritual power, fulfills noble material desires, and grants ultimate liberation.

Legend: Poor brahmin named Sumedha lived peacefully with his pious wife Pavitra. Despite extreme poverty, couple welcomed guests with whatever little food they had. One day, sage Kaundinya visited their humble home. Seeing their poverty, sage advised wife Pavitra to observe Parama Ekadashi fast falling in Adhik Maas. She observed fast with complete faith and discipline. Soon after, wealth and prosperity naturally flowed into their life, freeing them from hardship.

Rituals: Devotees keep fast for five consecutive days starting from Parama Ekadashi (Pancharatra fast) if capable, or observe main day fast strictly. Offerings of sweets made with ghee, gold or brass items, and water pots are made to learned brahmins and needy people.

Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

All pictures are courtesy Gemini based on the prompts depicting each Ekadashi

Aadi Krithigai – Ultimate Ritual of Faith and Surrender

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Aadi Krithigai is an important festival celebrated mostly in Tamil Nadu and South India. It falls in Tamil month of Aadi, which usually comes between July and August. This day is dedicated to Swami Murugan, who is also known as Kartikeya, Subramanya, or Skanda.

In Hindu tradition, Aadi is considered a deeply spiritual month. During this month, power of Maata Shakti and her blessings are very strong. Krithigai star or Nakshatra comes every month, but when it aligns with Aadi month, it becomes extra special. Devotees believe that worshipping Swami Murugan on this day removes obstacles, removes bad karma, and brings peace, good health, and success in life.

Legend Behind the Festival – Swami Murugan and Krithigai Stars

According to ancient scriptures, Swami Murugan was born from divine third eye of Bhagwan Shiva. Bhagwan Shiva released six divine sparks of fire to destroy demon Tarakasura, who was troubling gods and innocent people. These sparks were so bright and hot that even wind god Vayu and fire god Agni could not hold them.

Sparks were carried to Ganges river and then reached Saravana lake. There, six sparks transformed into six beautiful baby boys. To nurture these infants, Bhagwan Shiva and Maata Parvati appointed six maidens known as Krittikas. These six maidens represent six stars of Pleiades star cluster in astronomy.

Six Krittika maidens showered pure love and care on six babies. Later, Maata Parvati came and embraced all six children together. By her divine touch, six babies joined together to become one single deity with six faces and twelve hands. This form of Murugan is called Shanmukha.

Maata Parvati and Bhagwan Shiva were pleased with loving service of Krittika maidens. Bhagwan Shiva granted a boon that these six maidens would be immortalized as stars in sky. He also declared that anyone who worships Swami Murugan on star day of Krithigai will receive special blessings of both Murugan and divine mothers.

Scriptural References

Story of Swami Murugan, his birth from divine sparks, and his nurturing by six Krittika maidens appears primarily in major Puranas and classical epics.

  • Skanda Purana: This is main and most detailed source for complete life story of Swami Murugan. Entire text is named after Skanda or Murugan, and it contains entire chronicle of his birth, role of six Krittika mothers, receiving his holy weapon Vel, and victory over demon Tarakasura.
  • Shiva Purana: Story appears in detail during narrative of Shiva and Parvati marriage and creation of warrior deity to save gods from demon oppression. It explains how divine energy was carried by Agni and Ganga before reaching Saravana lake and six Krittika maidens.
  • Mahabharata and Ramayana: In Vana Parva section of Mahabharata, story of Skanda birth and his connection with Krittika star mothers is narrated in detail to Yudhishthira. In Ramayana Bala Kanda, Sage Vishwamitra narrates divine story of Kartikeya birth to Bhagwan Rama.
  • Kumarasambhava by Kalidasa: This famous Sanskrit epic poem written by poet Kalidasa focuses entirely on courtly retold version of events leading up to birth of Kumara or Swami Murugan to defeat demon Tarakasura.
  • Sangam Literature and Tamil Texts: In Tamil tradition, story and worship practices are recorded in ancient Sangam literature works like Tirumurugatrupadai composed by Nakkeerar, as well as medieval masterwork Kanda Puranam written by Kachiyappa Sivachariyar.

Associated Legends and Stories

Story of Idumban and Origin of Kavadi

Agastya sage wanted to bring two hills named Sivagiri and Shakti Giri from Himalayas to South India for worship. He requested his disciple Idumban to carry them. Idumban tied two hills to two ends of wooden beam using snakes as ropes and carried them on his shoulder. This setup became first Kavadi.

On his way near Palani, Idumban felt tired and kept hills down to rest. When he tried to lift them again, hills would not move. He saw a young boy standing on top of hill. Boy claimed hills belonged to him and refused to step down. Idumban got angry and tried to fight boy, but boy defeated him easily.

Idumban realized that boy was Swami Murugan himself and begged for forgiveness. Swami Murugan restored Idumban back to life and blessed him. Murugan declared that anyone carrying Kavadi on shoulder with devotion, especially on holy days like Aadi Krithigai, will have their desires fulfilled and burdens lifted.

Story of Peace at Thiruttani

Another legend connects Aadi Krithigai to Thiruttani temple, which is fifth abode of Swami Murugan. After ending long battle against demon Surapadman, Swami Murugan was filled with intense heat and anger. He needed quiet place to calm his mind and rest.

He chose top of Thiruttani hill to cool down his anger. Devotees and celestial beings gathered there on Krithigai day to offer him cool water, milk, and fragrant flowers. Swami Murugan became peaceful and granted deep mental relief to everyone present.

Because of this event, devotees believe worshipping Murugan at Thiruttani during Aadi Krithigai cools down anger, stress, and anxiety from life.

Legend of Divine Mango and Palani Hill

Sage Narada once brought rare mango of knowledge to Kailash and gave it to Swami Shiva and Maata Parvati. Both parents decided to give fruit to child who circles world first. Swami Murugan immediately sat on his peacock and flew around world. Bhagwan Ganesha simply walked around his parents, saying they were his entire world, and won fruit.

Pazhani Malai

When Murugan returned and saw fruit given to Ganesha, he felt upset. He left Kailash and went south to settle on Palani hill as hermit with simple staff and loincloth. Maata Parvati and Shiva came down to console him and explained that he himself was ultimate fruit of divine knowledge.

Devotees celebrate Aadi Krithigai to honor simplicity of Swami Murugan on Palani hill and seek true wisdom over worldly possessions.

Rituals Followed & Beginning of the Practice

Practice of celebrating Aadi Krithigai started centuries ago as a way to show gratitude to Krittika mothers and honor birth purpose of Swami Murugan. Since Swami Murugan was raised by mothers who gave him love and protection, devotees honor this bond by observing strict vows on this day.

Devotees wake up early during Brahma Muhurtham, take bath, and visit Murugan temples. Many people undertake fast for whole day or eat only simple fruits and milk.

One major ritual associated with Aadi Krithigai is carrying Kavadi. Devotees carry a decorated wooden arch on their shoulders as symbol of surrender and sacrifice. They often walk miles barefoot to reach famous Murugan shrines like Palani, Thiruttani, Swamimalai, and Tiruchendur. Carrying milk pots or Paal Kudam on head is another popular practice to offer holy bath or Abhishekam to Swami Murugan.

Flowers like marigold and red rose are offered to Swami Murugan during special prayers. Temples echo with chants of Vel Vel Muruga and songs praising his courage and compassion. By performing these simple acts of devotion, believers seek inner strength and divine protection for their families.

VETRI VEL MURGANUKKU ARAHAROHARA