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Papmochani Ekadashi is a festival of fasting in Hindu culture and is observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi). It is generally celebrated in the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Chaitra month (March-April) of the Hindu calendar. The term “Papmochani” translates to “the day that cleanses sins”

Devotees fast on this day and perform prayers and rituals to ask for forgiveness of sins from Lord Vishnu. This specific fast is known as Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat. This fast is broken on the next day after sunrise (Dwadashi). 

It is believed that celebrating this day with devotion and sincerity can help in attaining moksha (liberation) from the cycle of life and death. In this article we explore the date, significance and rituals of this day.

Papmochani Ekadashi 2024: Date and Time

In 2024 Papmochani Ekadashi will be celebrated on Friday, April 5. The Ekadashi tithi starts at 4:14 PM on April 4 and ends at 1:28 PM on April 5. 

Parana (breaking fast) time is between 6:05 AM and 8:37 PM. On this day Dwadashi ends at 10:19 AM. As per rituals and traditions it is important to break the fast within the Dwadashi tithi that is unless Dwadashi ends before sunrise.

Significance of Papmochani Ekadashi

Followers believe that this day holds the power to cleanse the soul and an individual’s sins. The term “Papmochani” is the combination of two words. “Pap” meaning “sin” and “mochani” meaning “the remover of sins”. 

Devotees believe that celebrating this day with devotion and faith can help with spiritual growth and live a life without sin. It is seen as a day to reset a person’s karmic chart and renew their path of honesty and goodness.

The Story Behind Papmochani Ekadashi

The origin of Papmochani Ekadashi is rooted deep in Hindu mythology. One legend tells the story of a powerful demon named Murasura who raised destruction in the celestial realms. At the face of doom, the gods looked for Lord Vishnu’s help.

To offer help Lord Vishnu engaged in a fierce battle with Murasura and ended his reign of terror eventually on the Ekadashi day in the Chaitra month. To celebrate this victory and to free humanity from sin, Lord Vishnu declared this day as Papmochani Ekadashi.

Keeping a fast on this day and participating in prayers is believed to bring Lord Vishnu’s blessings and protection from sins and evil forces. On this day, devotees seek forgiveness for past sins.

The Rituals of Papmochani Ekadashi

This Ekadashi is celebrated by following certain rituals that help with the spiritual purification process. 

• Devotees wake up early and take a bath. Then wear clean and traditional clothes. The day is spent in prayer, meditation and reading holy scriptures that tell the legends of Lord Vishnu’s victories.
• Fasting is an important practice of Papmochani Ekadashi. Though people observe different types fasts, devotees generally avoid food and water throughout the day. As per tradition the fast is broken the next day after sunrise. It’s believed that the practice of fasting helps purify the body and mind.
• The various forms of fasting include Jalahar (only water), Ksheerbhoji (only milk products) and Phalahari (only fruits)
• People also practice the act of charity and donate items such as clothes, food and money to those in need. It symbolizes selflessness and letting go of ego.

As Papmochani Ekadashi 2024 approaches let us prepare for the opportunity for spiritual renewal and cleansing. Let’s focus on the removal of our past sins and start on a journey towards righteousness. 

The Astro Kundli team hopes this auspicious day brings you inner peace, divine blessings and a fresh start on your spiritual path!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the benefits of Papmochani Ekadashi?

It is believed that celebrating this Ekadashi with devotion and faith can help in receiving Lord Vishnu’s blessings and remove our past sins.

Which is the first Ekadashi in 2024?

Saphala Ekadashi was the first Ekadashi in 2024. This day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This Ekadashi is generally observed on the 11th day of the Krishna Paksha during the month of Pausha and this year it was celebrated on Sunday, January 7.

What is the time of papmochani ekadashi?

The Ekadashi tithi starts at 4:14 PM on April 4 and ends at 1:28 PM on April 5. Parana (breaking fast) time is between 6:05 AM and 8:37 PM. On this day Dwadashi ends at 10:19 AM. As per rituals and traditions it is important to break the fast within the Dwadashi tithi that is unless Dwadashi ends before sunrise.