Parama Ekadashi Vrat 2018

Parama Ekadashi comes in Krishna Paksha of Adhik Masa or Purushottama Masa. One achieves rare accomplishments or siddhiyan by worshipping Lord Vishnu on this day. That is why, this Ekadashi is famously known as Parama Ekadashi as it is the provider of ultimate accomplishments and benefits. This fast results in financial gains & prosperity and lessens sufferings. One should donate gold, knowledge, food & grains, land or cow on this Ekadashi.

Parama Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi

The fasting method of this Ekadashi is difficult. One has to fast continuously for five nights, also known as Panch-Ratri Vrat. Also, one must not drink water but only Bhagwat Charnamrit from the day of Ekadashi till Amavasya. Fasting for five nights results in good virtue and fortune. Parama Ekadashi Vrat Puja Vidhi is as follows:

1.After taking a bath early in the morning, take some fruit & water in hand and vow for this fast. Then, worship Lord Vishnu.
2.  After that, fast for five days while remembering the name of Shri Vishnu.
3.  On the fifth day, after offering food and donation to the brahmin, the person should eat his/her meal.

Parama Ekadashi Vrat Katha

According to religious beliefs, Shri Krishna narrated the story of Parama Ekadashi Vrat and its importance to Arjuna.

In ancient times, a Brahmin named Sumedha lived in Kampilya town. His wife’s name was Pavitra who was supremely vestal (Sati & Sadhvi) and virtuous. In spite of living in poverty, they were extremely religious and serve their guests well. However, becoming miserable with their conditions, the Brahmin thought of going abroad. But his wife said - Swami! Good fortune and child can only be achieved from the donation made in previous life. So, do not worry about it.

One day, Maharishi Kaudilya came to their home. The Brahmin couple served him wholeheartedly. Seeing their condition, Maharishi told them to fast for Parama Ekadashi. He said - You can overcome your poverty by fasting together for Ekadashi in Krishna Paksha of Adhik Masa and performing Jagrans at night. By fasting for this Ekadashi Vrat, Yakshaj Kubera became the Lord of Treasures and Harishchandra a King.

After the sage were gone, Sumedha and his wife fasted for this Ekadashi. In the early morning, a prince riding a horse came and enriched Sumedha with a prosperous home, all riches, property and resources. After that, the couple lived happily ever after.