BhaktiLoopAmla Ekadashi
A sacred day dedicated to worshipping Lord Vishnu and the Amla (Indian Gooseberry) tree. Observing a fast and performing rituals on this day is believed to bestow immense spiritual merit, health, prosperity, and lead to liberation (moksha).
Key Rituals & Practices
Observing a strict fast (Nirjala - waterless, or Phalahari - fruits/milk, depending on individual capacity).
Worshipping Lord Vishnu with offerings of fruits (especially Amla), flowers, incense, and lamps.
Performing special puja to the Amla tree: circumambulating it, offering water, milk, sacred thread (kalava), flowers, and lighting lamps at its base.
Listening to or reciting the 'Amalaki Ekadashi Vrat Katha' (story).
Donating food, clothes, or Amla fruits to Brahmins or the needy.
Staying awake throughout the night (Jagran) chanting mantras or devotional songs (for some devout followers).
Breaking the fast on Dwadashi (the 12th day) after worshipping Vishnu and offering food to Brahmins.
Associated Deities
Hindu Calendar Details
Hindu Month
Phalguna
Paksha
Shukla Paksha (Bright Fortnight)
Tithi
Ekadashi (11th day)
Historical & Mythological Context
Mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, including the Brahmanda Purana. The mythology highlights the sanctity of the Amla tree, believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma. One popular legend recounts the story of a hunter named Chaidya (or a Vaishya), who, though unknowingly, observed the fast on Amalaki Ekadashi and worshipped the Amla tree. Due to this act, he was reborn as a king in his next life and eventually attained liberation, illustrating the immense power of this Ekadashi.
Alternative Names
Gregorian Date
Varies Annually (typically in February or March)