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Vijaya Ekadashi also known as Falgun Krishna Paksha Ekadashi is a religious festival that falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the waning phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna. The word “Vijaya” means “victory.” In this article, we explore the meaning, rituals, and importance of this day.

Vijaya Ekadashi 2024: Date and Time 

In 2024, Vijaya Ekadashi will be observed on Wednesday, March 6. The Ekadashi tithi begins at 6:30 AM on March 6 and ends at 4:13 AM on March 7. 

Its occurrence date is based on the Hindu lunar calendar and the phase of the moon. Ekadashi is generally the 11th day of every moon phase. Hence, Vijaya Ekadashi can fall on different dates every year.

Significance of Vijaya Ekadashi 

Vijaya Ekadashi is celebrated with utmost devotion and faith by religious followers as this day represents victory over problems. People believe that performing rituals associated with this day can help them with spiritual growth and fulfill material desires. 

It’s believed that on this day Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe, gives his followers strength to overcome challenges and be successful in achieving their goals.

The epic Mahabharata is also said to be linked with the meaning of Vijaya Ekadashi. As per legend, the Pandavas celebrated this Ekadashi before they went to war in Kurukshetra to ask for God’s blessings for victory in battle. 

The Story Behind Vijaya Ekadashi

There are various lores behind this Ekadashi. One of them is the advice that Lord Krishna gave Yudhishthira as the Pandavas prepared for the battle in Kurukshetra. Krishna told him about Vijaya Ekadashi rituals and traditions. The Pandavas listened to his advice and observed the Ekadashi with devotion, resulting in their victory.

This story tells us that devotion and unwavering faith can help us overcome all obstacles in life. Religious followers celebrate the festival to attain victory in battles of life.

Vijaya Ekadashi Rituals and Traditions

• Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat: Devotees fast on this day. This fast is known as Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat. There are various different versions of the fast such as Jalahar (only water), Ksheerbhoji (only milk products), Phalahari (only fruits), Naktabhoji (single meal before sunset) and a fast which involves avoiding eating and drinking.
• Night vigil: A night vigil which is commonly known as Jagran in India, is organized. Devotees stay awake all night to pray, sing devotional songs or bhajans and recite from sacred scriptures. 
• Worshipping Lord Vishnu: People pray to Vishnu and perform pujas. They give flowers, light incense and perform aarti of the god’s statue to ask for his blessings on this day.
• Charity: People donate items such as food, liquids and clothes on this day to the less fortunate. Believing that helping those in need and doing good deeds can bring good luck and positivity from the gods.
• Listening to the Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat Katha: Devotees recite, read and listen to the legends behind this Ekadashi.

As Vijaya Ekadashi approaches, let’s get ready to receive the Vishnu’s blessings and celebrate this festival with utmost devotion and faith. May this day bring you the strength and courage to face life’s challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Vijaya Ekadashi good or bad?

This Ekadashi is observed as day to worship Lord Vishnu and receive his blessings and strength to overcome life’s challenges. Hence it could be said that this day is a good day for everyone.

What to eat on Vijaya Ekadashi?

There are various versions of Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat such as Jalahar (only water), Ksheerbhoji (only milk products), Phalahari (only fruits), Naktabhoji (single meal before sunset) and a fast which involves avoiding eating and drinking.

What is Vijaya Ekadashi also known as?

It is also known as Falgun Krishna Paksha Ekadashi.