April 12, 2025 
Kamada Ekadashi, is a significant and auspicious day dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. The name “Kamada” itself translates to “wish-fulfilling,” and this Ekadashi is celebrated with the belief that sincere observance through fasting and devotion can grant the desires of its devotees, absolve them of their sins, and bestow spiritual merit, ultimately leading towards liberation. The stories associated with Kamada Ekadashi, narrated in ancient scriptures, highlight the power of this day to even reverse curses and fulfill seemingly impossible wishes through the grace of Lord Vishnu.
This year Kamada Ekadashi will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025. Ekadashi Tithi Begins: Monday, April 7th, 2025 at 08:00 PM. Ekadashi Tithi Ends: Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 at 09:12 PM. Parana (Breaking the Fast) Mahurat: Parana Day: Wednesday, April 9th, 2025. Parana Time: Between 06:02 AM and 08:34 AM. Dwadashi Ends: Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 at 10:55 PM
Devotees typically begin the day before Ekadashi by having a simple, sattvic meal in the afternoon and resolving to observe the fast with sincerity. On the day of Ekadashi itself, the observance starts with an early morning bath, followed by cleaning the house and the puja area. An idol or picture of Lord Vishnu is lovingly decorated with flowers, especially Tulsi leaves, which are highly sacred to Him. Many devotees choose to go without any food or water (Nirjala fast), while others opt for a partial fast (Phalahar), consuming only fruits, milk, and nuts. Chanting the sacred names and mantras of Lord Vishnu, such as “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” or the Vishnu Sahasranama (the thousand names of Lord Vishnu), is a significant practice. Reading or listening to the sacred texts related to Lord Vishnu, especially the Vrat Katha (story) of Kamada Ekadashi, is also an integral part of the observance.
Observance and Rituals
On the Ekadashi day itself, the routine begins with an early morning bath and the cleaning of the house, particularly the puja area. A dedicated altar is prepared for Lord Vishnu, where an idol or picture of the Lord, often adorned with yellow flowers and sacred Tulsi leaves, is placed. The day is primarily dedicated to fasting, with many devotees choosing to observe a strict fast without any food or water. Others who find it difficult to undertake a complete fast may opt for a partial fast consuming only fruits, milk, yogurt, and nuts.
Worship and Devotion
Throughout the day of Kamada Ekadashi, devotees engage in various forms of worship dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Chanting His sacred names and potent mantras, such as “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” and the Vishnu Sahasranama, is a central practice. Reciting or listening to the sacred scriptures that narrate the glories of Lord Vishnu and the significance of Ekadashi, particularly the Vrat Katha of Kamada Ekadashi, is also highly recommended. Performing puja with deep reverence involves offering incense, lighting a ghee lamp, and presenting Lord Vishnu with permissible offerings, depending on the nature of the fast being observed.
Breaking the Fast
The observance of Kamada Ekadashi concludes on the following day, Dwadashi (the twelfth lunar day), with the breaking of the fast, a ritual known as Parana. It is crucial to perform the Parana during the specific auspicious time window mentioned in the Panchang. Parana time is between 06:02 AM and 08:34 AM on Wednesday, April 9th. After completing the morning rituals and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, devotees partake in a simple, sattvic meal to break their fast. Observing the Parana at the correct time is considered essential to receive the full spiritual benefits of the Ekadashi fast.
Significance of Charitable Acts
On the auspicious day of Kamada Ekadashi, engaging in acts of charity and kindness is considered highly meritorious. Devotees are encouraged to extend their compassion and generosity to those in need by donating food, clothes, money, or other essentials. Feeding the poor and supporting charitable causes are seen as ways to embody the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu and earn His blessings. This selfless service aligns with the core principles of Hinduism, emphasizing empathy and the importance of contributing to the well-being of others.