Parsva Ekadashi

 

Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Parivartini Ekadashi, Vamana Ekadashi, or Jayanti Ekadashi, is a spiritually potent observance that falls on the 11th day (Ekadashi tithi) of Shukla Paksha in the Bhadrapada month—which in 2025 occurs on September 3rd (Wednesday).

Significance

• Marks the cosmic turning of Lord Vishnu during his divine slumber in Chaturmas—he shifts from his left to right side, symbolizing spiritual renewal.
• Observing this Ekadashi is believed to cleanse past karmas, bring mental clarity, and lead toward moksha (liberation).
• It is especially sacred for Vaishnavas, as it honors Lord Vamana, the fifth avatar of Vishnu.

Legend

The tale centers on King Bali, a benevolent demon king who ruled the three worlds. To restore cosmic balance, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, and requested three steps of land. After Bali agreed:

• Vamana covered heaven with one step,
• Earth with the second,
• And placed the third step on Bali’s head, sending him to Patal Lok (netherworld).

Impressed by Bali’s humility, Vishnu granted him the boon of visiting his people once a year—this forms the basis of Onam in Kerala.

Rituals

• Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast, avoiding grains, pulses, onion, garlic, and non-veg. Some opt for nirjala vrat (no water), others consume fruits and milk.
• Puja Vidhi:
• Wake up during Brahma Muhurta, bathe, and take a sankalp (vow).
• Worship Lord Vamana with tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, ghee lamps, and Panchamrit abhishekam.
• Recite Vishnu Sahasranama, perform aarti, and stay awake through the night singing bhajans.
• Charity: Donating food, clothes, and silver is highly meritorious.
• Parana: Break the fast on Dwadashi tithi, after Hari Vasara ends, ideally during Pratahkal.

Scriptural Reference

Parsva Ekadashi is glorified in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, where Lord Krishna narrates its significance to Yudhishthira Maharaja. It is also mentioned in the Bhavishya Purana under the Chaturmasya Mahatmya. Key highlights include:

• Worship of Lord Vamana, the fifth avatar of Vishnu.
• Observance of this Ekadashi is said to grant the merit of performing Ashwamedha Yagna.
• It marks the cosmic turning of Lord Vishnu during his divine sleep in Chaturmas, hence the name Parivartini Ekadashi.

Temples to Visit

Devotees flock to Vishnu temples across India, especially those associated with Vamana avatar and Vaishnava traditions:

• Trivikrama Temple, Tirunavaya (Kerala) – Celebrates Lord Vamana’s victory over Bali.
• Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu) – Depicts the Vamana form in majestic scale.
• ISKCON Temples – Host special kirtans, discourses, and fasting rituals on this day.
• Sri Vamana Temple, Thrikkakara (Kerala) – Central to the Onam legend and Parsva Ekadashi observance.

Regional Observance

• Maharashtra & Gujarat: Known as Jal Jhulni Ekadashi, devotees carry Lord Krishna’s idol in a palanquin and perform water processions.
• Kerala: Closely linked to Onam, honoring King Bali’s devotion and Lord Vamana’s incarnation.
• North India: Vaishnavas observe it with Jagran, Tulsi puja, and chanting Vishnu Sahasranama.
• South India: Temples conduct Vamana Jayanti celebrations, special abhishekams, and charity events.