Apara Ekadashi:

Apara Ekadashi, observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase) of the month of Jyeshtha (May-June), holds great importance in Hindu tradition. The term "Apara" means 'limitless' or 'boundless', signifying the immense spiritual benefits and divine blessings associated with observing this Ekadashi. It is believed that by fasting and performing rituals on this day, devotees can attain relief from their sins, gain prosperity, and achieve Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). Apara Ekadashi is particularly known for its power to nullify the effects of past misdeeds and provide spiritual upliftment.

History:

The history of Apara Ekadashi is detailed in the Brahmanda Purana. According to the legend, there was once a mighty and righteous king named Mahidhvaja. His younger brother, Vajradhvaja, harbored jealousy and ultimately killed him. As a result, Mahidhvaja's spirit became a restless ghost. A sage named Dhumya encountered this spirit and, learning of its plight, performed the Apara Ekadashi rituals to free the spirit from its torment. This story emphasizes the redemptive power of Apara Ekadashi, highlighting its significance in providing salvation and peace to troubled souls.

Rituals:

1. Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast, abstaining from grains, beans, and certain vegetables. The fast can be Nirjala (without water) or Phalahar (with fruits, milk, and nuts).

2. Morning Rituals: The day begins with an early morning bath, often in a holy river or with sanctified water at home. Devotees wear clean, preferably new clothes.

3. Prayer and Worship: Special pujas are performed to Lord Vishnu, including offering flowers, incense, lamps, and fruits. Devotees chant Vishnu Sahasranama and other mantras dedicated to Vishnu.

4. Reading Scriptures: Reading or listening to stories and significance of Apara Ekadashi from sacred texts like the Brahmanda Purana is a common practice.

5. Charity: Acts of charity, such as donating food, clothes, and money to the needy, are encouraged. Feeding Brahmins and providing for animals are considered particularly meritorious.

6. Night Vigil: Many devotees stay awake the entire night, chanting the names of Lord Vishnu, singing bhajans, and engaging in spiritual discussions.

7. Breaking the Fast: The fast is broken the next day, Dwadashi, after performing morning rituals and offering food to a Brahmin or the needy. Devotees typically break the fast with light and sattvic food.

Temples:

On Apara Ekadashi, temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his incarnations see a significant influx of devotees. Some prominent Vishnu temples where special celebrations take place include:

1. Badrinath Temple: Located in Uttarakhand, this temple is one of the Char Dhams and sees elaborate celebrations and rituals.

2. Tirupati Balaji Temple: Situated in Andhra Pradesh, it is one of the richest and most visited temples in the world.

3. Jagannath Temple: In Puri, Odisha, known for its grand Rath Yatra, also observes Ekadashi with great fervor.

4. Venkateswara Temple: In Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, famous for its Venkateswara deity.

5. Ranganathaswamy Temple: Located in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, known for its magnificent architecture and devotion.

Arti (Ritual of Light):

Arti is a significant part of the worship ritual on Apara Ekadashi. It involves the waving of lit lamps before the deity to the accompaniment of songs of praise. The main steps include:

1. Lamps filled with ghee or oil are lit.

2. Devotional songs and bhajans praising Lord Vishnu are sung.

3. The lamp is waved in a circular motion in front of the deity, usually four times in the clockwise direction, symbolizing the removal of darkness.

4. Bells are rung continuously during the Arti.

5. Flowers and incense are also offered.

6. The offerings (bhog) are distributed among the devotees as prasad after the Arti.

Mantras:

Chanting mantras is an integral part of the Ekadashi observance. Some important mantras dedicated to Lord Vishnu are:

ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय : This is a powerful mantra invoking Lord Vishnu.

श्रीमद्विष्णोः सहस्रनामस्तोत्रं :Reciting the thousand names of Lord Vishnu is highly auspicious.

ॐ विष्णवे नमः This mantra honors Lord Vishnu.

हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण, कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे,हरे राम हरे राम, राम राम हरे हरे।  Chanting this mantra is believed to invoke the blessings of Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu.

                                      Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva..! ..

Summary:

Apara Ekadashi is a day of profound spiritual significance, observed with devotion through fasting, prayer, and various rituals. Devotees prepare special offerings (bhog), visit temples, perform Arti, and chant mantras to honor Lord Vishnu. These practices help devotees purify their minds and souls, seek divine blessings, and strive for spiritual liberation.