Festivals
Date
Smarta Kamika Ekadashi
Ekadashi Parana Timings
Auspicious Vrata Parana Windows
Parana Time
9 Aug, 3:52 pm – 6:36 pm, 9 Aug
Harivasara End Time
9 Aug, 12:49 pm
Dwadashi End Time
10 Aug, 4:31 am
About
Kamika Ekadashi falls during the dark fortnight of Ashadha and is celebrated as a powerful day for washing away grievous sins and reviving one's spiritual journey.
Significance:
Lord Brahma explains in the Brahma Vaivarta Purana that observing Kamika Ekadashi is as meritorious as performing a grand Ashvamedha Yajna or bathing in the Ganges at Kashi. The story speaks of a wealthy Thakur who accidentally killed a Brahmin in a fit of rage. Rejected by society and burdened by the terrible sin of Brahma-hatya, he was advised by a sage to observe Kamika Ekadashi. Through sincere fasting and worship, he was absolved of his monumental sin and attained peace.
Rituals & Puja Vidhi:
1. Tulsi Worship: Worshipping Lord Vishnu specifically with Tulsi leaves is considered highly auspicious on this day. 2. Fasting: Observing a complete fast to discipline the mind and seek divine forgiveness. 3. Deep Daan: Lighting lamps (Deepa) before the deity and in temples to dispel the darkness of ignorance. 4. Parana: Breaking the fast the next morning after feeding a Brahmin.