Papmochini Ekadashi: Date, history, significance, pooja timings and how it can absolve sins
Papmochini Ekadashi, also called Papamochani Ekadashi, is a day observed by Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. While Ekadashi is observed every month, the Papmochani Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the Hindu lunar calendar Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra, which is mostly March or April.
The name ‘Papmochini’ simply translates to ‘remover of sins’, and devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi with fasting and prayers helps free them of sins and purifies their souls.
The name ‘Papmochini’ simply translates to ‘remover of sins’, and devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi with fasting and prayers helps free them of sins and purifies their souls.
In traditional households, the Papmochini Ekadashi fast begins a day prior, on Dashmi, and continues until the next day's sunrise.
On Papmochini Ekadashi, devotees wake up early, take a shower, and perform the rituals for Lord Vishnu, offering prayers, flowers and fruits. Many devotees also read the scriptures, sing devotional songs and engage in meditation during their fasting.
It is believed that keeping a fast on this Ekadashi with devotion and sincerity helps people seek forgiveness for past sins and walk on a path of righteousness. The fasting people engage in, becomes a symbol of self-discipline and restraint.
On Papmochini Ekadashi, devotees wake up early, take a shower, and perform the rituals for Lord Vishnu, offering prayers, flowers and fruits. Many devotees also read the scriptures, sing devotional songs and engage in meditation during their fasting.
It is believed that keeping a fast on this Ekadashi with devotion and sincerity helps people seek forgiveness for past sins and walk on a path of righteousness. The fasting people engage in, becomes a symbol of self-discipline and restraint.
Date and pooja timings for Papmochini Ekadashi
This year, the Papmochini Ekadashi will be observed on April 5 and devotees will fast on the same day, breaking their fast on April 6, early morning.
The Ekadashi Tithi will begin on April 4, 04:14 PM, and end on April 5, 1:28 PM.
History and legend of Papmochini Ekadashi
The legend behind the Papmochini Ekadashi has been read and recited in the form of Vrat katha for a long time now.
It is said that in ancient times, there was a sage who meditated devotedly, worshipping Lord Shiva. But, his deep focus was disturbed and he was distracted by Manju Ghosha, an Apsara sent by Kamadeva.
The sage soon succumbed to her charms and the two spent quite some time together. However, their happiness was short-lived as she decided to leave their relationship, leaving the sage regretful. Realising his mistake, he cursed her in a moment of anger, for distracting his meditating state, but unfortunately, as he was the one who was distracted, and thus was punished too.
The sage asked around the right way to absolve his sin and was then advised to observe the Papmochani Ekadashi fast. It was believed to cleanse his sins and restore his spiritual purity, allowing him to regain his sage-like virtues.
How does it help absolve sins?
Papmochini Ekadashi is famous for its ability to cleanse the sins of the person who observes the day with devotion and purity. It is said that if a sage who tumbled on his ascetic path can be freed from all his sins, a simple human too can!
On Papmochani Ekadashi people observe fasts, pray and read scriptures for a devoted period of time, ask God for forgiveness of sins or any wrongs done unintentionally, and much more. By doing this, it is believed that they can start fresh and be better people.
Papmochini Ekadashi reminds people to think about how they've been acting and to try to be kinder and more honest to receive the blessings of God. It is said that fasting on this day is like hitting a reset button for your soul, and giving it a chance to let go of any guilt or mistakes they may have made.
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