Celebrate Papmochani Ekadashi in 2025

Papmochani Ekadashi, a highly auspicious and spiritually significant day, will be observed on Tuesday, March 25th . The name 'Papmochani' signifies the power of this Ekadashi in absolving sins and removing past karmic burdens, allowing devotees to attain spiritual purification and divine grace. Devotees observe Papmochani Ekadashi by engaging in prayers, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama , and performing rituals that purify the mind and soul. Fasting on this Ekadashi is considered especially powerful for those seeking atonement for past wrongdoings and a fresh start on their spiritual journey.

The significance of this sacred day is highlighted in Hindu scriptures, where it is said that even the gravest sins can be washed away through sincere devotion to Bhagwan Vishnu. By observing Papmochani Ekadashi with faith and discipline, devotees seek divine blessings, inner peace, and ultimate salvation.

Significance & Importance of Papmochani Ekadashi

Papmochani Ekadashi holds profound significance in Hindu traditions, as described in various ancient scriptures, particularly in the Bhavishya Purana and the Padma Purana. The word 'Papmochani' means 'remover of sins,' indicating that this sacred Ekadashi has the divine power to cleanse devotees of all past misdeeds and karmic burdens. Observed on the Ekadashi tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Chaitra, it is regarded as the last Ekadashi before the arrival of Chaitra Navratri, making it even more spiritually significant. The vrata (fast) and associated rituals performed on this day are believed to liberate devotees from the cycle of sins, grant mental clarity, and bestow peace and divine grace.

According to the Bhavishya Purana, Bhagwan Krishna narrated the greatness of Papmochani Ekadashi to King Yudhishthira, emphasizing that observing this vrat with faith can eradicate even the gravest sins, including those committed knowingly or unknowingly. The scriptures recount the story of a sage named Meda Rishi, whose disciple Chitraratha fell into the trap of temptation and indulgence. As a result, he lost his spiritual virtues and accumulated sins. Upon realizing his mistakes, Chitraratha observed Papmochani Ekadashi with unwavering devotion, and by the grace of Bhagwan Vishnu, he was freed from all his sins. This story illustrates the immense power of this Ekadashi in purifying the soul and restoring dharma.

The Padma Purana further highlights that observing Papmochani Ekadashi brings immense merit equivalent to performing several yajnas (sacrificial rituals) and pilgrimages to sacred places. It is said that those who fast on this day and engage in chanting the names of Bhagwan Vishnu, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, and offering prayers with a pure heart receive divine blessings and ultimate liberation (moksha). The vrata is especially recommended for those who seek forgiveness for past mistakes, relief from negative karmic influences, and a fresh start on their spiritual journey. It is also believed to eliminate fear, grant peace of mind, and pave the path toward spiritual enlightenment.

Thus, as per ancient scriptures, Papmochani Ekadashi is not just a day of fasting but a divine opportunity to seek atonement, practice self-discipline, and align oneself with the path of righteousness. Through sincere observance, devotees can transcend their past actions and experience the grace, protection, and eternal blessings of Bhagwan Vishnu, making it one of the most spiritually uplifting Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar.

Stories of Papmochani Ekadashi Festival

Papmochani Ekadashi is celebrated with great reverence, and its significance is highlighted in Hindu scriptures, particularly in the Bhavishya Purana. The festival is associated with stories that illustrate the power of devotion, fasting, and Bhagwan Vishnu’s grace in eradicating sins. These stories serve as timeless reminders that even the gravest mistakes can be atoned for through sincere repentance and adherence to dharma.

Story of Medhavi Rishi and the Celestial Apsara

One of the most well-known stories associated with Papmochani Ekadashi revolves around Medhavi Rishi, a great sage known for his intense penance and unwavering devotion to Bhagwan Shiva. His deep meditation was so powerful that even the celestial realms were astounded. Indra, the king of the gods, feared that Medhavi’s penance might grant him extraordinary power, so he sent a beautiful apsara (celestial nymph) named Manjughosha to distract him.

Manjughosha descended to earth and began singing melodious tunes and performing an enchanting dance near Medhavi Rishi’s hermitage. Slowly, her beauty and charm broke the sage’s focus, and he succumbed to worldly desires. As a result, he lived with the apsara for several years, forgetting his ascetic duties. However, after a long time, the apsara eventually grew weary and decided to return to the celestial world. When she sought permission to leave, Medhavi Rishi suddenly realized how much time had passed and how he had deviated from his path of penance.

Filled with remorse and shame, he returned to his father, Sage Chyavana, and confessed his sins. Chyavana Rishi advised his son to observe the Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat, explaining that this sacred day had the divine power to cleanse even the most severe karmic burdens. Medhavi Rishi followed the vrata with full devotion, engaging in fasting, prayer, and meditation on Bhagwan Vishnu. As a result, his sins were washed away, and he regained his spiritual purity and divine grace. This story emphasizes the power of Papmochani Ekadashi in liberating one from worldly attachments and restoring spiritual discipline.

Story of King Mandhata and the Liberation from Sins

Another ancient tale describes the pious King Mandhata, who ruled with great righteousness but was unknowingly burdened with the sins of his past life. Despite performing yajnas (sacrificial rituals) and acts of charity, he could not attain true peace. Seeking guidance, he approached a learned sage who advised him to observe Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat. The sage explained that fasting and praying to Bhagwan Vishnu on this sacred day could dissolve even the heaviest karmic debts.

With full faith, King Mandhata observed the Ekadashi with unwavering devotion. He fasted, meditated on Bhagwan Vishnu, recited Vishnu Sahasranama, and spent the day in self-purification. By the end of the vrata, he experienced a sense of inner peace and divine bliss. The sage assured him that all his past sins had been absolved, and he could now rule his kingdom without any karmic burdens. This story reinforces the belief that Papmochani Ekadashi is the ultimate day for spiritual cleansing and liberation from past mistakes.

Moral and Significance of the Stories

The stories of Papmochani Ekadashi highlight the transformative power of devotion, self-discipline, and fasting. Whether it is a great sage who lost his path or a noble king burdened by past karma, the observance of this Ekadashi proves to be a divine means to seek atonement and receive Bhagwan Vishnu’s blessings. The festival teaches that no sin is too great to be forgiven, provided one sincerely repents and surrenders to the divine with faith and discipline.

By following the sacred traditions of Papmochani Ekadashi, devotees are reminded that spiritual purity, inner peace, and divine grace are always within reach, regardless of past actions. The fasting, prayers, and rituals observed on this day serve as a pathway to moral and spiritual upliftment, granting devotees prosperity, well-being, and ultimate liberation (moksha).

Festival Date, Time, Muhurat & Tithi

Papmochani Ekadashi will be observed on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025.

Ekadashi Tithi (11th lunar day) of the Krishna Paksha in the Chaitra month as per the lunar calendar.

Key Timings for Papmochani Ekadashi 2025:

• Papmochani Ekadashi Muhurat: 06:10 AM to 08:25 AM (IST)
  Duration : 2 Hours 15 Minutes
• Ekadashi Tithi begins at 04:55 AM on March 25th (IST)
• Ekadashi Tithi ends at 06:30 AM on March 26th (IST)
• Papmochani Ekadashi Puja Muhurat: 06:24 AM to 06:33 PM (IST)
  Duration: 12 Hours 09 Minutes

Note: Sunrise and sunset vary by region and date due to India's geographical diversity. For exact timings, refer to local astronomical data.

How to celebrate Papmochani Ekadashi

Celebrating Papmochani Ekadashi involves deep devotion, fasting, and prayer to seek Bhagwan Vishnu’s divine blessings. Devotees begin the day with an early morning bath, preferably in a holy river or at home, followed by cleaning the puja area and setting up an altar for Bhagwan Vishnu. A key aspect of the celebration is observing a strict fast, which may be nirjala (without water) or phalahar (fruit and milk-based diet), depending on one’s ability. Devotees abstain from consuming grains, pulses, and tamasic foods like onions and garlic. The fast is observed with a pure heart and unwavering faith, focusing on spiritual upliftment and self-purification.

Throughout the day, devotees engage in chanting Vishnu Sahasranama , reciting the Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat Katha, and singing bhajans in praise of Bhagwan Vishnu. Performing Tulsi and Bhagwan Vishnu puja is considered highly auspicious. Offerings such as fruits, flowers, sandalwood, and panchamrit (a sacred mixture of milk, honey, curd, sugar, and ghee) are presented to the deity. Charity and acts of kindness play a significant role, as donating food, clothes, or money to the needy is believed to multiply the spiritual benefits of the vrat. Devotees also seek forgiveness for their past sins and pray for peace, prosperity, and liberation from negative karmic influences.

The fast is concluded on the next day (Dwadashi) by offering prayers to Bhagwan Vishnu and donating food to Brahmins or the underprivileged. Many devotees break their fast with sattvic food, such as fruits, kheer, or milk-based items, avoiding grains until the fast is fully completed. Observing Papmochani Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion is believed to cleanse sins, remove obstacles, and bring peace, spiritual progress, and divine blessings, making it a significant and transformative day for devotees of Bhagwan Vishnu.

Papmochani Ekadashi Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)

Papmochani Ekadashi is a sacred observance dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu, believed to cleanse devotees of past sins and negative karmic influences. Observing this Ekadashi with devotion, fasting, and prayers brings spiritual purification, peace, and divine blessings.

The following Puja Vidhi (procedure) outlines the step-by-step rituals to be performed on this holy day.

• Early Morning Purification: Begin the day by waking up before sunrise and taking a holy bath, preferably in a sacred river or at home. Wear clean clothes and observe mental and physical purity, as this day is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu’s divine blessings.
• Cleanse and Prepare the Puja Area: Thoroughly clean the puja space or home altar where Bhagwan Vishnu’s idol or picture will be placed. Decorate the area with flowers, rangoli, and fresh leaves to create a sanctified atmosphere.
• Sankalp (Vow for the Fast): Sit in front of the deity and take a sankalp (sacred vow) by folding your hands and praying to Bhagwan Vishnu. Express your devotion and intention to observe Papmochani Ekadashi vrat for spiritual cleansing, forgiveness of sins, and divine grace.
• Invocation of Bhagwan Vishnu: Offer water, turmeric, kumkum, and flowers to Bhagwan Vishnu’s idol while chanting his sacred names. Recite 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' to invoke the divine presence.
• Offering of Panchamrit and Abhishek: Prepare Panchamrit (a sacred mixture of milk, honey, curd, sugar, and ghee) and use it for abhishek (ritual bathing) of the deity, followed by offering clean water. Wipe the idol gently and dress it with fresh clothes and sacred threads.
• Offering of Sacred Items: Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, sandalwood paste, fruits, and incense sticks. Tulsi leaves are especially significant, as they are believed to please Bhagwan Vishnu and enhance the benefits of the vrat.
• Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama and Papmochani Ekadashi Katha: Chant Vishnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Bhagwan Vishnu) and read the Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat Katha. This sacred story recounts the importance of this Ekadashi and how it can purify past karmic sins and bestow spiritual liberation.
• Performing Aarti: Light a ghee lamp and perform aarti with devotion. Sing bhajans and hymns in praise of Bhagwan Vishnu while rotating the lamp in a circular motion. The aarti signifies the removal of darkness and the entry of divine light into life.
• Observing the Fasting Rules: Strictly follow the fasting rules by abstaining from grains, pulses, and tamasic foods like onion and garlic. Depending on one’s capacity, the fast can be nirjala (without water), phalahar (fruits and milk-based), or with light satvik meals.
• Acts of Charity and Helping the Needy: Charity is an essential part of Papmochani Ekadashi puja. Offer food, clothes, or financial aid to Brahmins, the poor, or needy individuals, as giving to others is believed to multiply the benefits of the vrat and bring divine blessings.
• Night Vigil and Chanting of Bhagwan Vishnu’s Name: Devotees are encouraged to stay awake at night (Jagran) and meditate on Bhagwan Vishnu by chanting mantras like 'Om Namo Narayanaya' or reading sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita or Vishnu Purana. This enhances the spiritual merit of the vrat.
• Parana (Breaking the Fast on Dwadashi): On the next day, Dwadashi Tithi, break the fast after offering prayers and food to Bhagwan Vishnu. Traditionally, devotees first donate food to Brahmins or the underprivileged, followed by consuming satvik food like fruits, kheer, and milk. Avoid grains until the fast is fully completed.

By performing Papmochani Ekadashi Puja with devotion, sincerity, and adherence to these rituals, devotees can attain divine blessings, remove past karmic burdens, and move closer to spiritual liberation (moksha).

Papmochani Ekadashi Puja Mantra

Papmochani Ekadashi Beej Mantra

This powerful mantra is recited for purification of sins and seeking divine forgiveness.

'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya'
Meaning: I bow to Bhagwan Vasudeva (Vishnu), the Supreme Being, and seek his divine grace and protection.

Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)

As per specifications in the ancient texts, the person should adhere to the rules strictly to get the benefits of fasting on Ekadashi.

• The devotee observing fast should have a bath on the morning of Utpanna Ekadashi.
• Beans and grains are prohibited to eat on Ekadashi.
• The killing of any animal is prohibited on this day for the devotee.
• Sleeping during the day is not allowed on Ekadashi and the next day that is on Dwadashi.
• The devotee keeping fast should not meet or interact with any cheats, frauds, or people involved in any nefarious activity. The scriptures even say that if by chance the devotee comes into proximity of such a person then one should purify by standing under the sun and looking directly at it.
• Abstinence from sex, gambling, gossiping on Ekadashi and Dwadashi.
• On Dwadashi (the day after Ekadashi), devotees are not supposed to eat in another person's house, have only one meal, Honey and Urad-dal(black lentil) is not to be consumed, eating on Bell-metal plate or cutlery, and should not massage oil on the body.
• As per the ancient text, if the devotee has to speak to a person from the lower cast, then he/she will have to purify himself by eating Tulsi leaves or an Amalaki fruit.
• If due to any reason the devotee is not able to break the fast on the next day, then he/she should have water to signify the completion of the fast and later have food when convenient.

Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat Katha

In the Papmochani Ekadashi Vrat Katha, Arjuna spoke: 'O Kamalanayan! As I listen to Ekadashi fast stories, my curiosity grows to hear about other fasts. O Madhusudan! Please tell me about Krishna Paksha Ekadashi in Chaitra. The name of this Ekadashi? What deity is worshipped and what is the fast rule? Shri Krishna! Explain this in detail.'

Bhagwan Krishna said, 'Arjuna! I am repeating what the sage Lomash told King Mandhata when Prithvi Pati Mandhata asked the same question. Sacred secrets expert Maharishi was asked by King Mandhata. Tell Lomash, 'Great Sage!' How can sins be erased? Please suggest a simple sin-removal method.'

O Nripati, said Maharishi Lomash Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha in Chaitra month is Papmochani. Its fast destroys many human sins. Listen carefully as I recount this fast.'Chaitraratha was an ancient forest. Kinnaras and Apsaras roamed there. That forest always had spring, meaning different flowers were in bloom. Sometimes Gandharva Kanyas wandered and Devendra played with other gods.

Medhavi, another sage, practiced penance in the forest.His devotion to Shiva was great. One day, Manjughosha, an Apsara, tried to enchant him by sitting far away and singing melodically on the Veena. Kamadeva also pursued Shiva devotee Maharishi Medhavi. Kamadeva bowed from that beautiful Apsara's eyebrows. His eyesight became his weapon and Manjughosha Apsara's commander. Kamadeva was ready to defeat his foe. Maharishi Medhavi was young and healthy. He wore Danda and Yajnopavita. Maharishi resembled Kamadeva. The sage, Manjughosha, who was under Kamadeva's control, slowly started singing on the Veena with a melodic voice, and Maharishi Medhavi was captivated by her beauty and singing. Apsara embraced the intelligent sage after learning he had Kama.

In love with her, Maharishi Medhavi forgot Shiva and had fun with her.

Due to lust, the sage had no idea of day or night and enjoyed for a long time. Manjughosha then told the sage, 'Rishivara! Please let me go to heaven after a long time.'

The sage said, 'O Mohini! Come in the evening and stay until morning.'

When the sage said this, the Apsara had fun with him. They also spent a lot of time together.

The sage heard Manjughosha say, 'O Vipra! Please let me enter heaven.'

Sage repeated, 'O Roopasi! Not much time has passed, wait.' After hearing the sage, the nymph said, 'Rishivar! Long night for you. Consider how long it has been since I arrived. Would staying longer be wise?'

Hearing Apsara's words, the sage realized the time and thought seriously. When he realized that 57 years had passed while he was enjoying, he considered Apsara the form of time or Kaal. He was furious at wasting time on pleasures. He looked at the Apsara who destroyed penance with raised eyebrows, furious. His anger made his lips tremble and senses go crazy. The sage lashed out at that Apsara, 'You wicked woman destroying my penance! Woe to you, a great sinner and wicked person. My curse turned you into a vampire.'

Apsara became a Pishachini after the sage's angry curse. She was distressed and said, 'Rishivara! Leave your anger on me, be happy, and tell me how to remove this curse. Scholars say that sages bring good results, and I've spent many years with you, so you should be happy with me or people will say that Manjughosha became a Pishachini because he lived with a virtuous soul.' The sage felt guilty for his anger and feared disgrace after hearing Manjughosha's words. The sage told Manjughosha, a Pishachini, 'You've hurt me, but I'd have told you how to break this curse. am. Krishna Paksha Ekadashi in Chaitra month is Papmochini. You can escape your Pishachini body by fasting on that Ekadashi.'

She was then instructed on all fast rules by the sage. He then atoned for his sins with his father Sage Chyavan.

'O son!' Rishi Chyavan said, seeing his smart son. What happened to ruin your penances? Which has tarnished your shine?'

The wise man bowed in shame and said, 'Father! I sinned by playing with an Apsara. My glory and penance may have been destroyed by this sin. Please explain how to overcome this sin.'

Sage said, 'Son! As per rituals and devotion, fast on Papmochini Ekadashi of Krishna Paksha of Chaitra month to purge your sins.'

The wise sage observed the Papmochani Ekadashi fast as instructed by his father, sage Chyavan. The influence erased all his sins. By fasting on Papmochani Ekadashi, Manjughosha Apsara was freed from Pishachini and returned to heaven in her beautiful form. O King, Lomash Muni said This Papmochini Ekadashi erases all sins. This Ekadashi story donates 1,000 cows when heard and read. This fast destroys Brahma Hatya sins like stealing gold, drinking alcohol, going astray, and leads to heaven.'

Synopsis (Katha-Saar)

This story shows that physical attraction is short-lived. In pursuit of beauty, the brilliant sage forgot his penance. The Papmochani Shakti of Bhagwan Shri Hari can easily free one from this terrible sin. Those who forget their good deeds due to greed and pleasure go to hell.

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Conclusion

Papmochani Ekadashi is a sacred observance that symbolizes spiritual purification, liberation from past sins, and the path to divine grace. Rooted in ancient scriptures, this Ekadashi offers devotees an opportunity to seek atonement, practice self-discipline, and strengthen their connection with Bhagwan Vishnu. Through fasting, prayers, and chanting of sacred mantras, one can cleanse the mind, body, and soul, removing negative karmic influences and embracing a life of purity, devotion, and righteousness.

By following the traditional puja rituals, reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, and engaging in acts of charity, devotees not only invite peace and prosperity into their lives but also take a step toward moksha (spiritual liberation). The significance of Papmochani Ekadashi lies in its transformative power, reminding us that sincere devotion, self-control, and faith in the divine can overcome any burden of past actions. Observing this Ekadashi with dedication ensures divine blessings, inner harmony, and a spiritually enriched life.