In Sanatan Dharma, the day of Ekadashi is regarded as the most auspicious for the worship of Lord Vishnu. Out of the 24 Ekadashis that fall throughout the year, each one holds its own special importance.
Among them, Indira Ekadashi, which falls in the Krishna Paksha of the month of Ashwin, is especially observed for the liberation and upliftment of ancestors. According to the Panchang, this year Ekadashi will be observed on 17 September. Since it falls during Pitru Paksha, a sacred period dedicated to remembering our ancestors, people will fast and also perform shraadh (shradh rituals). According to Hindu scriptures observing this fast removes Pitru Dosha (ancestral affliction), brings peace to the souls of forefathers and grants the devotees Moksha.
The Significance of Indira Ekadashi
According to the scriptures, if an ancestor has fallen into suffering due to sinful deeds, whether in hell or in a lower birth, this fast grants them release and upliftment. The Padma Purana says that the fruits of fasting and giving charity on this Ekadashi, when dedicated to one’s ancestors, help them attain liberation and reach Vaikuntha. According to Wisdom Library, “Vaikuntha is the dwelling place of Maha Vishnu.”
The Padma Purana also states that by observing the Indira Ekadashi fast, the individual will being blessings for seven generations.
Rituals and Observances
On this day, rise early, bathe and take the vow of fasting. Worship Lord Vishnu in the form of Shaligram. Bathe the idol with Panchamrit and Ganga water, then offer sandalwood, flowers, tulsi leaves and food. Spend the day chanting the name of Hari, avoid laziness and perform Shraddha for the contentment of your ancestors. On the following day, Dwadashi, worship Lord Padmanabha, offer food to Brahmins and give them alms, then only after that partake of food yourself.
The Legend of Indira Ekadashi
In the Satya Yuga, King Indrasena of Mahishmati was righteous and a devoted follower of Lord Vishnu. One day, the sage Narada told him that his father was enduring suffering in Yamaloka (the abode of Yama, god of death) because he had once broken a fast. For his father’s deliverance, Indrasena was advised to observe Indira Ekadashi. The king duly performed the fast and Shraddha with devotion, through which his father attained Vishnu’s abode. In the end, after completing his own life’s journey, King Indrasena himself reached the heavenly realm.