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Procedure to observe Ekadsi Viradham
Posted on: 25/Jan/2019 4:30:24 PM
By observing Ekadasi Viradham (doing penance on the 11th day during the growing/diminishing Phase of the Moon), the 3 undesirable thought processes of anger, hatred, and ill-feelings will get removed and the normal thought process will get cleansed
The ill-effects of the evil deeds done during this birth will get removed and healthy and pleasant life will be blessed.
Keeping a mind focused throughout the day and observing fast on that day is rather special!
There is a popular saying of the ancestors – ‘Remain alone and aloof without any talking and spend the day of Ekadasi thus. Take the blessing given by Lord Ekambarar as your food!’
Dharma Sastras explain that observing the penance on Ekadasi Day is the equivalent of ‘thanksgiving’ to the Lord for giving this birth. So, it is advisable to observing penance on this day avoiding participation in feasts and celebrations.
There are 2 ‘Ekadasis’ every Tamil month and a total of 25 Ekadasis during a year.
Procedure to observe Ekadasi Viradham
Get up early on the Ekadasi Day and take an early morning bath and perform the daily religious cores such as performing poojas and ‘anushtanams’ and the meditate focusing Lord Vishnu in the mind. It is better to observe fast during this entire day avoiding food totally. Water may be taken every now and then to quench thirst.
The patients who are suffering from illnesses can take the fruits offered to the Gods. There is no problem in drinking water during this day when penance is being observed. During the rainy and wintry seasons, a small bunch of basil leaves (‘thulasi’) can be taken 7 times during this day. Basil leaves will provide the warmth necessary for the human body. As fasting is observed, rest is given to the digestion system! The water taken serves to cleanse the interiors.
Avoid sleeping both during the day and night sessions – Keep awake while deeply meditating in the mind about the Lord. One may read divine religious stories or listen to music/songs on the same. One may sing or listen to others singing.
The next day of ‘Dwadasi’, take an early bath, perform Poojas and then offer food to the guests as well as the poor people. Take dishes made from ‘Agathikkeerai; (a variety of green especially taken on this day) and gooseberry, and sundaikkaai. Even on this day of Dwadasi also, stick to the system of only one meal per day. One can take some fruits in the night concluding the ‘Ekadasi Viradham’!
