Amalaki Ekadashi is an important day in Hindu religion. It is considered like a festival. Amalaki Ekadashi also known as Krishna Ekadashi of Phalgun month is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Falling on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon) in the month of Phalgun, known as Ekadashi, this day holds immense spiritual significance for devotees seeking blessings, purification, renewal from Lord Vishnu.
Amalaki Ekadashi takes its name from the Indian gooseberry tree, known as Amalaki or Amla. According to Hindu mythology, fasting on this Ekadashi is believed to purify one's soul, remove sins and provide spiritual merit equivalent to performing penance or donating lakhs. It is said that by devoutly fasting and worshiping Lord Vishnu on this auspicious day, devotees can attain moksha and attain freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Devotees wake up early in the morning, take a ritual bath, and then engage in prayers and meditation. Fasting is observed throughout the day, abstaining from grains, beans, and certain vegetables. Some devotees opt for a complete fast without consuming water, while others consume fruits, milk, and nuts. The Amalaki tree holds special significance on this day, and offerings of its fruits or leaves are made to Lord Vishnu.
The significance of Amalaki Ekadashi is narrated in the ancient scripture, the Brahmanda Purana. According to the legend, there was a righteous king named Chitraratha who ruled over the city of Vaidisha. Due to a curse, the king lost his kingdom, wealth, and prosperity. Desperate to regain his kingdom, he consulted sage Vasishta, who advised him to observe Amalaki Ekadashi with utmost devotion. Following the sage's instructions, King Chitraratha observed the fast and worshipped Lord Vishnu sincerely. Pleased with his penance, Lord Vishnu appeared before him, blessed him, and restored his kingdom, thus illustrating the power and significance of this sacred Ekadashi.
Amalaki Ekadashi holds deep significance in Hindu culture as a day of spiritual purification, renewal and devotion to Lord Vishnu. By observing this holy Ekadashi fast with sincerity and dedication, devotees strive to purify their soul, eradicate sins and attain divine blessings and salvation. It guides the devotees towards final salvation and enlightenment.