Auspicious Jaya Ekadashi

Auspicious Jaya Ekadashi

Vedic literature describes that observing fast on Ekadashi destroys all sins. Lord Shri Krishna pleases very much with this fast and bestows eternal blessings to the devotees. In each month, fast observation and worship of Lord Shri Krishna on every Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha are prescribed as per Vedic injunction. There are incalculable benefits of Ekadashi. Ekadashi fast frees one from all sins and transcends this vast ocean of material existence. In various Purans, it is mentioned that one should not eat anything after sunset from the tenth day onwards. One should think of God while taking a rest at night. On the day of Ekadashi, one should rise early in the morning and worship Lord Shri Krishna after taking a bath. One should offer Tulsi leaves, sandals, Ganga water, and fruits to Lord. One should refrain from ill talks, lies, fraud and devote his time to chanting Krishna’s name, remembering Krishna’s various pastimes, and thinking of the Lord’s eternal abode. 

➢   Vedic Evidence

We learn about this Ekadashi from a conversation between Lord Shri Krishna and Emperor Yudhishthira in Bhavisya Uttar Puran. Emperor Yudhishthira asked Lord, “Hey Janardan, what is the story behind Ekadashi on Shukla paksha in the month of Magh? How to observe fast on this Ekadashi and to whom should one worship?”   

Lord Shri Krishna replied, “O great king, listen carefully. Ekadashi on Shukla paksha in the month of Magh is popularly known as Jaya Ekadashi. This auspicious date destroys all sins and can liberate one. Anyone who abides with it, will not have to suffer in ghostly species of life. That’s why one should consciously abide by and observe fast on Ekadashi.”

“Once Indra, King of heaven, along with other demigods and damsels, were strolling in the Nandan forest, which was decorated very beautifully with parijaat flowers. Indra, King of 50 crores of Gandharvas, organized a dance program in the forest to entertain themselves. Pushpadant, chief of Gandharvas and Chitrasen, chief musician of Indra’s assembly, with his wife Malani, was also there in the forest. Pushpadant’s daughter was Pushpavanti, and Malyavaan was the son of Chitrasen and Malani. They also participated in the dance to please King Indra. Pushpavanti and Malyavaan developed an affection for one another and became agitated. They were illusioned and couldn’t concentrate on their performances. They were unable to focus on the tone and tempo of the song due to which Indra understood and took it as his disrespect. He cursed them.”

➢   Indra’s curse to Malyavaan and Pushpavanti

indra curses - jaya ekadashi story

“King Indra angrily cursed them with the following words – ‘You fools, you both have disregarded and disobeyed my command thus disown you both. You should fall down to ghostly species and suffer for your misdemeanour in the lower planetary system as a couple’. They became extremely sad after hearing such harsh words from Indra. They fell down on earth as ghost couples and lived miserably near the Himalayan mountain. They lost their sense of smell, sense of taste, sense of touch, etc. They were unable to sleep even for a moment and thus were experiencing excruciating pain. That place was extremely cold and due to which they always had goosebumps and chattering teeth.”

“One day, he told his ghost wife, ‘We must have committed many sins in our previous life due to which we have got this miserable and horrible birth in ghostly species of life. It must be better to rot in hell than to suffer in this ghostly form. Therefore we should not commit any more sins in this life and try to get out of this form.’ In that way, they were living their lives.”

➢   The transformation from ghost form to demigods form

“On one day, they didn’t take any foodstuff and refrain from committing any sin, coincidently it was Jaya Ekadashi in the Shukla Paksha of Magh month. They didn’t even take any fruit or nongrain foodstuff. Tormented by tremendous sorrow, they spent their day sitting beneath a peepal tree until sunset. It was very cold that night, so they couldn’t even sleep for a moment.”  
Lord Krishna addressed emperor Yudhishthira, “O King! Because they observed fast on Jaya Ekadashi and because they didn’t sleep that night; on the next day they were freed from the ghostly species of life. They got their original form of demigod and demigoddess back. Decorated beautifully with costly garments and ornaments, they departed for the heavenly planet. At that time, it started to rain with flowers. They went to meet Indra and paid their obeisances. Indra was amazed to see their original form and enquired from them, how did they get freedom from ghostly life?

Malyavaan replied, “O Indra! We were freed from ghostly life due to the causeless mercy of Lord Shri Hari and because of observing fast on Jaya Ekadashi.”

➢   Indra’s view on Jaya Ekadashi

Indra replied, “O Malyavaan! By observing fast on Jaya Ekadashi and by the causeless mercy of Lord Shri Krishna, not only you were freed from the ghostly condition of life but also became more venerable than us. Whoever takes shelter of Lord Shri Hari and observes fast on Ekadashi; they are worshippable. All glories to both of you.”

Lord Krishna further told Yudhishthira, “O King! Jaya Ekadashi even frees from the guilt of Brahma-hatya. It should be understood that one who has observed fast on Jaya Ekadashi, has already accumulated results of all charity and sacrifices. Just by hearing and reading the glories of Jaya Ekadashi, one gets the result of agnishtom sacrifice; by observing fast one gets to Vaikuntha.” In this way, Lord concluded the significance and glories of Jaya Ekadashi in Bhavishya Uttar Puran. 

➢   Lord Varahadeva appearance day 

appearance day of varaha dev

Lord Varahadeva appeared on the next day of Jaya Ekadashi i.e. Dwadashi. Thus on Jaya Ekadashi nirjala fasting is observed for half-day and celebration of Lord Varahadeva’s appearance on Dwadashi.

➢   Glories of Jaya Ekadashi

From the above story, we can understand that Malyavaan and Pushpavanti observed fasting on Jaya Ekadashi unknowingly. Even after that, they were not only freed from the ghostly conditions of life and got their original form back, but also became worshippable by Indra. What would be unattainable for one who observes fast very diligently on Jaya Ekadashi? One should think about it. 

➢   How to observe Jaya Ekadashi in Kaliyuga?

Therefore, we all should observe fasting on this Ekadashi which is extremely lovable to Lord Shri Krishna and provides impetus to reach the supreme goal of one’s life, love of Godhead. We all should chant Hare Krishna mahamantra individually and in the group as much as possible, read scriptures like Srimad Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, and concentrate on the lotus feet of the Lord by reducing the bodily needs on this day. 

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare,
Hare Ram Hare Ram Ram Ram Hare Hare

Jaya Ekadashi Date:- 20 Feb 2024 (Tuesday)
Fast breaking time:- 21 Feb 2024 (Wednessday), between 06:55 am to 10:41 am

 

Your Smallest act of Charity can make a difference and bring smiles to Needy Faces.

Srila Jiva Goswami-Disappearance

Introduction:

Born in 1513, Srila Jiva Goswami was a prominent figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. As the nephew of Srila Rupa Goswami and Srila Sanatana Goswami, he received initiation fromSrila Rupa Goswami and later became the acharya, the spiritual master, succeeding both Srila Rupa Goswami and Srila Sanatana Goswami. Jiva Goswami, the youngest among the six Goswamis devoted to Lord Chaitanya, stands out not only for his devotion but also for his exceptional scholarship.

 

Devotion

Srla Jiva’s childhood was a tapestry woven with threads of love for Krishna. He would meticulously create small images of Krishna, adorned with jewels, and offer heartfelt prayers. Those who witnessed these devotional activities were moved by the purity of his love.

 

Journey to Devotion:

As Srila Jiva Goswami grew, he experienced a transformative dream where he saw Lord Chaitanya engaged in divine sankirtana. This celestial vision became the catalyst for him to leave his home and embark on a spiritual pilgrimage. Blessed by Lord Nityananda, he journeyed to sacred places such as Navadvip, Varanasi, and eventually arrived in the holy land of Vrindavan, where he became a devoted disciple of Srila Rupa and Sanatana Goswamis.

 

Srila Rupa Goswami’s Kindness:

A touching episode in Srila Jiva Goswami’s life unfolded while he was serving Srila Rupa Goswami. Fanning Rupa Goswami as he composed Bhakti-rasamrita-Sindhu, Jiva, prompted by love and concern for his guru, respectfully disagreed with Vallabha Bhatta’s suggested corrections to Rupa Goswami’s work.

In the ensuing discussion, Jiva ardently defended the sanctity of Rupa Goswami’s teachings, countering every objection raised by Vallabha Bhatta. Although Vallabha Bhatta acknowledged Jiva’s erudition, this incident led to a temporary separation between Jiva and Rupa Goswami. Undeterred, Jiva used this time to intensify his devotional practices.

 

Trial and Redemption:

During his separation from Rupa Goswami, Srila Jiva Goswami, driven by an unparalleled dedication, retreated to Nanda Ghat, a nearby village. There, he engaged in austere practices, fasting, and intense worship of Krishna. His physical form, weakened by the severity of his practices, bore witness to the sincerity of his spiritual endeavors.

Touched by Jiva’s unwavering devotion, Sanatana Goswami discovered him and brought him back to Srila Rupa Goswami. Recognizing Jiva’s deep repentance and profound love for the divine, Rupa Goswami, in a display of divine compassion, forgave him and showered him with affection.

 

Sanskrit Scholar Par Excellence:

Jiva Goswami earned a distinguished reputation as a Sanskrit scholar, often acclaimed by contemporary Sanskritists as the greatest philosopher and scholar of his time. His mastery over Sanskrit allowed him to delve into the depths of Vedic literature and present profound philosophical insights.

 

Prolific Writer:

Among the six Goswamis, Jiva Goswami holds the distinction of being the most prolific writer. Despite being the youngest, his literary contributions were extensive. He authored approximately twenty-five books, showcasing his deep understanding of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. Some of his notable works include the Sat-sandarbha, Gopala-champu, and Hari-namamrita-vyakaranam. These writings not only serve as philosophical treatises but also provide practical guidance for devotees on the path of devotion.

 

Legacy and Spiritual Master:

Jiva Goswami played a crucial role in preserving and propagating the teachings of Lord Chaitanya. His scholarly works continue to be studied and revered by followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, offering profound insights into the philosophy of devotion.

 

Samadhi in Vrindavan:

Srila Jiva Goswami’s physical presence concluded in 1598, leaving behind a legacy that resonates through his writings and spiritual guidance. His samadhi, a sacred memorial, stands within the compound of the Radha-Damodara temple in Vrindavan. This temple holds great significance as it was a place where Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), stayed before embarking on his global mission in 1965.

 

Conclusion:

Srila Jiva Goswami, the youngest yet the most prolific among the Goswamis, remains a revered figure in Gaudiya Vaishnavism. His unparalleled scholarship, devotion, and extensive writings have left an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape. As we reflect on the life and contributions of Srila Jiva Goswami, we find inspiration in his dedication to Lord Chaitanya’s teachings and his role as a guiding spiritual master for generations to come.

The Blissful Symphony of Devotion: Celebrating Pushya Abhishek

Intoduction

In the realm of devotion, where love transcends boundaries, the festival of Pushya Abhishek stands as a testament to the boundless affection that devotees shower upon Lord Krishna. This unique celebration, marked by the consecration of vibrant flowers, unfolds as a beautiful symphony of emotions and devotion. Devotees, disregarding caste or community, come together to express their love for Sri Sri Radha Krishna through this annual festival. In the month of Poush, the first rays of festivity illuminate the spiritual landscape as Lord Krishna is adorned with kilos of fragrant flowers, creating a mesmerizing sight. Let us delve into the enchanting world of Pushya Abhishek, where every petal tells a tale of devotion.

The Significance of Pushya Abhishek

Pushya Abhishek holds a special place in the hearts of devotees, symbolizing the profound connection between the Supreme lord and the devotee. Lord Krishna, known for his sensitivity to feelings, joyously accepts even the simplest offerings made with love. The festival takes place with the anointment of the Lord using hundreds of kilograms of colorful and fragrant flowers, transforming the deity into a breathtaking floral spectacle. Devotees, driven by pure love, dress the Lord in garments made of these exquisite flowers, creating an immersive experience of devotion.

Bhagavad Gita’s Teachings on Devotion

The essence of Pushya Abhishek is beautifully encapsulated in a verse from the Bhagavad Gita (BG 9.26):

“patram puspam phalam toyam
yo me bhaktya prayacchati
tad aham bhakty-upahrtam
asnami prayatatmanah”

 Translation: “If one offers Me with love and devotion a leaf, a flower, fruit, or water, I will accept it.”

This verse exemplifies the simplicity and purity of devotion, emphasizing that the Lord cherishes even the humblest offerings when made with genuine love. It reflects the inclusive nature of devotion, inviting all to express their love in whatever form they can.

 The Tale of Mahatma Vidur and His Wife:

A poignant example of devotion is found in the story of Mahatma Vidur and his wife. When Lord Krishna, as a messenger, faced rejection from Duryodhana, he sought refuge at Vidur ji’s house. Overcome with hunger, Krishna requested entry, and Vidur’s wife, driven by pure emotion, welcomed him with open arms. In a display of unconditional love, she fed Lord Krishna banana peels, unaware of their ordinary nature. Lord Krishna, touched by her sincerity, relished the peels, showcasing that Supreme Lord values the emotions behind an offering more than the material substance. Vidur ji, initially surprised, scolded his wife upon witnessing this unconventional offering. However, the wife, repentant yet angry, expressed her sentiments to the Lord. In response, Krishna, with laughter in his eyes, explained that her love had brought him immense joy. Vidur ji then joined in the offering, realizing that Krishna’s hunger was not for the physical, but for the emotional essence of devotion. This heartwarming tale underscores the profound truth that God yearns for the love and emotions of his devotees.

Celebrating Pushya Abhishek

Pushya Abhishek is not merely a ritualistic celebration but a spiritual journey where devotees offer their love through flowers, fruits, and water. The festival encourages a heartfelt connection with the Supreme Lord, emphasizing that the Lord accepts these offerings with immense joy. As devotees gather, irrespective of background, to prepare for the festival, the atmosphere becomes infused with love and devotion. Most festivals involve the utsav deity of the temple, but Pushya Abhishek takes a unique turn. Devotees shower colorful and fragrant flower petals on the original deity of the Lord, creating a visual spectacle. In the evening, the melodious kirtan of the Lord resonates, marking the culmination of the day’s celebrations. The festival serves as a reminder that the core of devotion lies in offering one’s heart and feelings to the divine.

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of devotion, Pushya Abhishek emerges as a radiant thread, weaving together the love and emotions of devotees for Lord Krishna. The festival, with its floral symphony and heartfelt offerings, transcends the boundaries of tradition, inviting all to participate in the joyous celebration. The story of Mahatma Vidur and his wife serves as a timeless lesson, teaching us that Supreme Personality of Godhead values the sincerity and emotions behind our offerings.

As we approach the sacred month of Poush, let us immerse ourselves in the spirit of Pushya Abhishek. Whether in the grandeur of an ISKCON temple or the warmth of our homes, let the fragrance of flowers and the melody of kirtan fill our hearts with devotion. The festival beckons us to express our love for Sri Sri Radha ParthaSarathi Ji, reminding us that in the garden of devotion, even the simplest flower holds profound significance.

Auspicious Makar Sankranti

Auspicious Makar Sankranti

If we try to understand Makar Sankranti in word form, the word Makar has been taken from Makar Rashi. Sankranti means entering. According to our ancient texts and Vedic calculations, time calculation is of two types.

The “Moon month Count” and “Solar Month Count” are based on the solar calendar. Sankranti means entering, the transition of the Sun, and the entry of the Sun, that is, the zodiac in which the Sun enters. It is called Makar Sankranti.

Types of the Solar Solstice

By the way, if seen, there are 12 types of Surya Sankranti, out of which four Mesh, Kark, Tula and Makar are prominent. The special significance of Makar Sankranti increases because the Sun God is Uttarayan on this day, that is, the journey of Lord Sun in the north direction. Before Sankranti, the Sun God is Dakshinayan. From the day of Sankranti, it travels in the north order, and this period is fixed for six months.

Lord Shri Krishna has told about Uttarayan in the Bhagavad Gita that people leave their bodies for six months from the day of Makar Sankranti, and they go to the higher planets. And those who leave their body in Dakshinayana go to the lower planets. It is said that there is an exception to every rule, something like this here too. Whoever is a devotee of the Supreme Lord, he leaves his body. Then after leaving the body in the time of Uttarayan and Dakshinayana, he reaches the abode of the Supreme Lord only. Supreme Lord Sri Krishna has told in the Bhagavad Gita Chapter 8 Verse 5 :

anta-kāle cha mām eva smaran muktvā kalevaram
yaḥ prayāti sa mad-bhāvaṁ yāti nāstyatra sanśhayaḥ 

In this, the Supreme Lord has told that whoever remembers me the last time, that person attains my abode only. The rule of Uttarayana and Dakshinayana is there only till the person does not completely surrender to Supreme Lord.

How does Makar Sankranti occur? 

makar sankranti

When the Earth revolves around the Sun in one full year, it is called the Solar System. If we talk about the calculation of demigods, then this one year of ours is equal to 1 day. That is, the demigods in 1 day do this circumambulation. There are 12 hours in the day and 12 hours in the night in 1 day of the demigods. That is why from the day of Makar Sankranti, the day of the demigods starts for the coming six months. From the day of Makar Sankranti, the demigods take baths early in the morning.

For this reason, on the day of Makar Sankranti, the importance of bathing, meditation and charity have been told. The day of Makar Sankranti is extraordinary, and all good work starts from the day of Makar Sankranti. Various dishes are prepared for this festival throughout India, and people also donate in large numbers. In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the day of Makar Sankranti is also known as the Khichdi festival.

Makar Sankranti Significance and Celebration

The sun god is also worshipped on this day, and everyone donates rice dal khichdi to charity. After that, the khichdi is cooked and eaten. In Gujarat, in Rajasthan, kites are flown at the festival of Makar Sankranti. The celebration of Makar Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh lasts for three days. In Tamil Nadu, this festival is known as Pongal because, in Tamil Nadu, people celebrate this family for ten days when the new crop is harvested, and here dal rice khichdi is cooked in ghee.

In Maharashtra, make laddus of sesame and jaggery, give each other, and provide good wishes. In Assam, this festival is known as Megh Bihu, and in Punjab, this festival is celebrated one day before as Lohri. In West Bengal, the Ganga Sagar fair is held on the banks of the Hooghly River. The Maha Kumbh bath is also held because on this day, Ganga Maiya descended on Earth on the day of Makar Sankranti to save her ancestors behind Bhagirath. That is why bathing in Ganga Sagar is of great importance on the day of Makar Sankranti.

As you all know that from the heart of Makar Sankranti, the time of change of season, the transition of time, and shift in crop starts. The Sun has a direct effect on all new crops from the heart of Makar Sankranti. That is why the auspicious Uttarayan begins by performing ablutions on the day of Makar Sankranti, which is similar in the world, like Jyoti, Deep Light, Sun, worship of all the demigods and all the good works that start from the day of Makar Sankranti. To please the Sun, people worldwide worship the Sun God according to their beliefs and celebrate the festival of Makar Sankranti.

Who is the Sun God?

The most important fact here is that who this Sun God is. The answer to this has been told in our main book Brahma Samhita. The creator of the universe, Lord Brahma, suggests that the Lord of all the planets is the Sun God. Sun is like one eye of the Supreme Lord. 

The cycle of time moves according to the orders of the Sun God. Therefore, accept my obeisances to that Lord Shri Govind. That is, the Sun God does his work only according to the demands of the Supreme Lord Shri Govind.

Have you ever seen such a time from your birth till the present that even for one day, the Sun God has not appeared to anyone? Lord Suryadev (Sun) has always done this work in his fixed time to set on time and rise on time. Surya Dev is always performing his duty and responsibility in the right way by illuminating this entire universe like a Karma Yogi. 

Surya is the disciple of Lord Shri Krishna to get his inner light and divine knowledge. For this, Lord Shri Krishna has also told Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita Chapter 4 Text 1.

imaṁ vivasvate yogaṁ
proktavān aham avyayam
vivasvān manave prāha
manur ikṣvākave ’bravīt
 

First of all, I had given this knowledge of Bhagavad Gita to the Sun God Vivasvan, in this way, on the day of Makar Sankranti, the right way to please the Sun God would be that we should also worship him, take refuge in them, whose shelter by the Sun God illuminates himself, that is Lord Sri Krishna Himself and the most accessible means of his lair in this Kaliyuga, is the Hare Krishna Mahamantra:-

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare

So all of you also chant this Maha-mantra to this holy name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead and understand the true meaning of every festival and celebrate it and be happy always.

Your Smallest act of Charity can make a difference and bring smiles to Needy Faces.

Glorious  Putrada Ekadashi

Glorious Putrada Ekadashi

Today in our country, all the people keep fasting. If you observe a fast for one day in the middle of a week, it has a definite purpose. It is told in the Brahmavarta Purana that fasting is to abstain from all kinds of sins and sense gratification. Indeed fasting on Ekadashi leads to the attainment of dharma, artha, kama, moksha, besides remembrance of Supreme Lord Sri Krishna is also attained. In Bhavishya Uttara Purana, the story of Putrada Ekadashi has been described by Lord Krishna and Dharmaraja Yudhishthira’s dialogue.

Glories of Putrada Ekadashi

Once Maharaj Yudhishthira asked Lord Sri Krishna, that oh Lord, please tell me the importance of fasting on Putrada Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of the past month, what is the method of observing this fast, which Lord is worshipped on this Putrada Ekadashi please tell me about all these in detail.

Lord Sri Krishna told Maharaj Yudhishthira that I describe the fast of this Putrada Ekadashi for the welfare of this world. Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Paush month is called Putrada Ekadashi. The fast of this Ekadashi is the destroyer of all sins. 

Listen in detail to the story of Putrada Ekadashi.

In ancient times, a king named Suketuman ruled in Bhadravati city. This King had no children. The King was very worried about this. King Suketuman wondered who would do his Pind Daan after his death. 

The King had started living so sad day by day. One day he had thought of leaving his body. But again, the thought came back in his mind that committing suicide is considered a great sin on this earth. That is why he had removed this thought from his mind as well. He rode on a horse and went to the forest. 

putrada ekadashi - King Suketuman went to forest in grief of not having a son

Saddened by all these thoughts, one day, the King rode on a horse and went to the forest, birds. He saw in the forest that the deer. Lions, monkeys etc., are roaming in the forest. The King saw that at some places, jackals are making hoarse words. Somewhere peacocks are dancing with their family. Seeing these forest scenes, the King became even sadder: why doesn’t he have a son? It was an afternoon in this thought.

The King started thinking that in my lifetime, I have done so many sacrifices etc., have fed Brahmins, and have done all the virtuous works, yet why I did not get the happiness of children. After all, what is the reason for this due to which I am suffering so much?
Taking a bath of all these things, the King started feeling thirsty, riding on his horse, started moving forward in the forest, saw a lake on the way, their crocodiles were playing water in the lake, and lotus flowers were blooming in that lake.

Seeing all these, the King’s left limbs started twitching, considering all these as auspicious omens. The King got down there, and there was a sage’s ashram nearby. When he bowed down to the great sages, O King, we are happy with you. Please tell us what you want. The King told all those brahmins who you are and what you are doing here. The sage said – O King, today is Putrada Ekadashi to give the best son to the one who wishes for a son. After five days, there is a Magha bath, so all of us have come here to take a Magha bath. After listening to the sages, the King said that I also do not have any son, so I am unfortunate.

Please, all of you give me the boon of having a son, then all the sages said that today is Putrada Ekadashi, you should fast on Putrada Ekadashi. By the grace of Lord Shri Hari, you will get a son. So the King fasted as per his instructions and also broke the fast on the day of Dwadashi. And after bowing down to the sages came back to his city.

By the grace of Lord Sri Hari, the queen became pregnant, and after nine months, a brilliant son was born to the King. When the prince started growing up, he became a very bright, wealthy, successful, stunning and follower of the subjects. Therefore, O King, everyone should observe the fast of this Putrada Ekadashi. In this world, whoever follows this fast according to the rules, is sure to get a son, and by enjoying the happiness of this world, he attains a higher planet.

Whoever observes this fast, praising its glory, will attain the same virtue as the Ashwamedha Yagya. Putrada Ekadashi, which gives progress in devotional service, should be fasted by all the people in the world. Grains have to be given up on Ekadashi. Consumption of food made from rice, wheat, maize, barley, gram etc., is prohibited in Ekadashi. To reduce all the body’s needs, one should remember Lord Shri Hari throughout the day. Lord Sri Krishna is very pleased with this mind of his. When Lord is pleased, then by his majesty, a person gets true happiness. Apart from this, it also becomes easy to get priceless Chintamani like devotional service to Supreme Lord.

Hare Krishna.

Your Smallest act of Charity can make a difference and bring smiles to Needy Faces.