Ekadashi is a very auspicious day that holds great importance in Hinduism. There are two Ekadashis during a month. Ekadashi (11th) day of Shukla Paksha (Waxing Moon Period) of Phalgun month (as per Hindu Calendar) before Holi is called Amalaki Ekadashi. The Amla tree (Gooseberry tree) is worshipped on this day. It is believed that when Lord Vishnu wished to create the universe, he also created the Gooseberry tree along with Lord Brahma. That’s why Amalaki Ekadashi has been given great importance by the scriptures. The fruit of Amla is also called the nectar fruit.
Let’s get to know the story and benefits behind the fasting and fasting method of Amalaki Ekadashi 2023.
Amalaki Ekadashi 2023: Date, Muhurat and Timings
In the year 2023, Amalaki Ekadashi will be celebrated on Friday, March 3.
- Ekadashi Tithi starts – March 3, 06:39 a.m
- Ekadashi Tithi ends – March 4, 09:11 a.m
- Parana Tithi (breaking of fast) of Ekadashi: March 4, between 06:46 a.m to 09:07 a.m
Significance of Worshipping Amla Tree on Amalaki Ekadashi 2023
Worshipping a tree is an important part of Hindu tradition in which the common belief is that an omnipresent deity or the universal spirit lives in everything. Trees are considered to be a pivotal part of agrarian communities in India. The worship of the amla tree is conducted due to the belief that Lord Vishnu resides in and near the tree, especially on Amalaki Ekadashi. In some regions of India, it is also believed that Lord Vishnu’s wife, Maa Lakshmi, the lord of wealth dwells in the tree. According to another legend, when Lord Vishnu appeared in front of Lord Brahma, tears started rolling from Lord Brahma’s eyes and those tears got converted into gooseberry trees. Another reason for the worship of the Amla tree is its supposed medicinal qualities used in Ayurvedic medicinal preparations, primarily due to its rich content of vitamin C.
Also Read: Significance of Rama Ekadashi Vrat
Amalaki Ekadashi Fasting and Worship Method
As per Hindu tradition, Ekadashi fasting is considered to be one of the best and most beneficial methods to seek the blessings of the Lord. Before observing Amalaki Ekadashi 2023 fast, let’s know the special ingredients needed for the worship.
Ingredients for Amalaki Ekadashi Puja
Kumkum (Roli), Akshat, Banana, Mango leaves, Fruits, Areca nut, Yellow clothes, Rosewater, Gooseberry plant, Gooseberry fruit, Molly, Coconut, etc. are needed.
Puja Vidhi (Worship Method) on Amalaki Ekadashi
- On the day of Amalaki Ekadashi, the devotees should wake up before sunrise and chant the mantras of Lord Vishnu while bathing in pure water.
- Before starting the fast, the devotees should take a vow to complete the Amalaki Ekadashi fast with full devotion by taking water in their hands in front of the idol or picture of Lord Vishnu.
- After the resolution of the fast, the idol of Lord Vishnu should be bathed. A lamp should also be lit in front of it. Then some fruits should be offered to the Lord.
- Worshipping the gooseberry tree or planting one is a must on this day. Tying a piece of yellow cloth to the tree and lighting a lamp near it is considered very auspicious. The devotees should also donate amla and offer food to the poor and needy on this day.
- The devotees should read the Amalaki Ekadashi Vrat Katha on this day. Then on the next day, at the time of Parana, one should also consume gooseberries.
Benefits of Amalaki Ekadashi fasting
Ekadashi is believed to be one of the favourite days of Lord Vishnu. By observing fast on this day and worshipping Lord Vishnu, all the difficulties and obstacles in life are removed. Fasting on Amalaki Ekadashi brings good health and salvation. Goddess Lakshmi is pleased by the devotees who observe the fast of Amalaki Ekadashi. By observing the Ekadashi fast, the souls of the ancestors also get peace. It is also said that a devotee observing this fast on Amalaki Ekadashi 2023, gets all his past sins erased.
Also Read: Religious Benefits of Fasting
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