"Kamada Ekadashi: A Spiritual Gateway to Fulfillment and Peace"

Introduction

'Kamada' means 'fulfilment of desires' which comes on the 11th lunar day (Ekadashi) of the fortnight of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Chaitra. As per the Gregorian calendar, it is observed in March or April. This year, it is on the 8th of April 2025.

As per “Drik Panchang”, the “tithi” for “Kamada Ekadashi” in 2025 is as follows:

• Kamada Ekadashi on the 8th of April 2025, Tuesday
• Ekadashi Tithi Starts - 08:00 p.m. on the 7th of April 2025
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 09:12 p.m. on the 8th of April 2025

As it is the very first Ekadashi in the Hindu New Year, Hindus all across India celebrate it straight after the celebrations of Chaitra Navratri and Rama Navami, especially in parts of Southern India like Bangalore. Many people call it 'Chaitra Shukla Ekadashi.'

Rituals & Observances on “Kamada Ekadashi”

On Kamada Ekadashi, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in the form of Lord Krishna, the Vasudev. The devotees keep an absolute fast & perform Puja to Lord Vishnu. This fast is considered to cure diseases & bless childless couples with desired progeny. As it fulfils people's wishes, Shastras have given it the name 'Phalada Ekadashi Vrat.' “Parana” (breaking of fast), is to be done the next day, i.e. on Dwadashi.

• As per “Drik Panchang”,
• On 9 th Apr, Parana Time - 06:22 a.m. to 08:52 a.m.
• On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 10:55 p.m.

Offering flowers, fruits & other items to the Almighty, and chanting mantras and hymns relieves one from past offences. Some people also read the Bhagavad Gita or other religious texts on this pious day. In some parts of India, grand processions are observed. People dress in traditional attire & carry the idols of Lord Vishnu & other deities in beautifully decorated chariots. The procession is accompanied by music, dance and other cultural activities.

Legend behind “Kamada Ekadashi”

Varaha Purana mentions the importance of “Kamada Ekadashi” in the form of a legend, first narrated by Shri Krishna narrates to King Yudhisthira. It is as follows:

Once, a city of sharp-fanged snakes called Ratnapura was ruled by the king Pundarika. There lived a Gandharva couple namely Lalit & Lalita who used to perform at the royal court as a singer and a dancer respectively. They loved each other so much.

One day, Lalit was singing in the court in front of the King & others. His wife wasn't present there. Hence missing her, he suddenly deviated from his singing & missed some beats. As a result, he lost track of the song's melody. Karkotaka (a Naga from Patala region) noticed this & complained immediately to the King. Pundarika got infuriated and cursed Lalit to become a monstrous cannibal.

As a result, Lalita got very anxious. Although she was the wife of a Gandharva, she had to spend the rest of her life wandering here and there along with her cursed husband. However, fortunately, they found the way to Sage Shringi around the Vindhyachal hills. Upon asking, Lalita informed the sage about their problem & asked for help. The sage suggested that she observe Kamada Ekadashi's Vrat (Phalada Ekadashi Vrat). She did the same & prayed to the Almighty to free her husband from the curse. As a result, Lalit was given back his original Gandharva form.

Significance of “Kamada Ekadashi”

Listening or reading the Kamada Ekadashi Vrat Katha is also believed to free one from all sins. And it's considered that formerly this story was narrated by Saint Vashishta to Maharaja Dilip, the great grandfather of Shri Ram.

Additionally, this day provides salvation, grants all desires, cleanses even the most heinous sins, frees the devotee and his or her family members from curses, helps regain and improve virtues, and blesses one with success, prosperity, endeavour, and enlightenment in life.

Conclusion

Let's consider this Kamada Ekadashi a spiritual opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the divine. This sacred day reminds us of the transformative power of devotion, intention, and surrender. Whether you seek fulfillment of desires, release from past burdens, or simply inner peace, Kamada Ekadashi can provide a path toward spiritual growth and divine grace. As you observe this Ekadashi with sincerity and faith, you invite blessings not only into your own lives but also into the lives of your loved ones—making it a truly enriching beginning to the Hindu New Year.

Are you seeking a fresh start but feel held back by past burdens

Connect with Smt. Ekktaa for meaning and insightful guidance at Ekohumm.