Ekadashi holds immense spiritual value in Hinduism, as it is considered a sacred day devoted to Lord Vishnu. Among the many Ekadashis observed throughout the year, Parsva Ekadashi stands out due to its deep spiritual importance and its close connection with the Chaturmas (the four holy months of devotion and penance). In 2025, Parsva Ekadashi 2025 will be observed with great devotion by devotees across India and the world.
This article explores the significance of Parsva Ekadashi, its rituals, story, and why it is one of the most auspicious days for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
When is Parsva Ekadashi 2025?
Parsva Ekadashi is observed on the Ekadashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada (August–September). It is also known as Parivartini Ekadashi because it marks the day when Lord Vishnu, who rests in Yoga Nidra on the cosmic serpent Sheshnaag during Chaturmas, changes his sleeping position (parivartan).
In 2025, Parsva Ekadashi falls on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.
What is the Significance of Parsva Ekadashi?
1. Connection with Lord Vishnu
Parsva Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the sustainer of the universe. As per scriptures, on this day, Lord Vishnu shifts his position during his divine sleep. This change is symbolic of cosmic balance and the beginning of auspiciousness in the universe.
2. Link to Chaturmas
Chaturmas is a sacred period when devotees engage in austerities, penance, and fasting. Parsva Ekadashi, being the midpoint of Chaturmas, is especially significant for devotees who are observing vows and religious disciplines during these months.
3. Spiritual Cleansing
Fasting on Parsva Ekadashi 2025 is believed to destroy past sins and liberate the soul from the cycle of rebirth. Devotees attain spiritual upliftment and move closer to attaining moksha.
4. Importance for Rituals and Charity
This day is also considered highly auspicious for performing Puja, Tulsi worship, and charity. Donating food, clothes, or money on Parsva Ekadashi is said to bring immense blessings from Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
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Parsva Ekadashi Vrat Katha (Legend)
The significance of Parsva Ekadashi is described in the Bhavishya Purana and other ancient texts. The day is closely connected with Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar and the story of the great King Bali.
The Story of King Bali and Vamana Avatar
King Bali, the grandson of the pious devotee Prahlada, was a mighty and generous ruler. Despite being born in the clan of demons (Asuras), Bali was known for his courage, discipline, and devotion to dharma. His power and influence, however, grew to such an extent that even the celestial gods (Devas) felt threatened.
Bali once performed a powerful Ashwamedha Yagna (horse sacrifice) to consolidate his power and expand his empire. His generosity during the yagna was unmatched—he never refused any request made by Brahmins or guests. The gods, led by Indra, prayed to Lord Vishnu to restore the balance of the universe and prevent Bali’s dominance from overshadowing their realm.
Listening to their prayers, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin boy. Vamana approached King Bali during the yagna and asked for alms. Bali, true to his nature of generosity, welcomed the little Brahmin and promised to give him whatever he desired.
Vamana humbly asked for land measuring just three steps of his feet. Amused by such a small request, Bali readily agreed, despite his guru Shukracharya warning him that this was no ordinary Brahmin.
The Three Steps of Vamana
The moment King Bali granted the wish, Vamana transformed into a gigantic form, Trivikrama, covering the earth and heavens with just two steps. With no space left for the third, Bali understood that this was none other than Lord Vishnu Himself.
Remaining true to his promise, Bali offered his own head for the third step. Lord Vishnu, moved by Bali’s devotion, humility, and integrity, placed His foot on Bali’s head. Instead of crushing him, Vishnu granted Bali the boon of immortality and blessed him with the kingdom of the netherworld (Paatal Lok), making him the ruler there.
Connection with Parsva Ekadashi
It is believed that this divine episode took place on Parsva Ekadashi. The term Parivartini (turning or changing) also signifies how Lord Vishnu, during His cosmic rest in Yoga Nidra, turns His side on this day. Symbolically, just as Vishnu “turns,” fate also changes for devotees who sincerely observe this vrat.
This story highlights the triumph of dharma over arrogance, the greatness of true surrender, and the mercy of Lord Vishnu, who rewards humility and devotion above power and pride.
Thus, on Parsva Ekadashi 2025, devotees remember not just the cosmic turning of Lord Vishnu but also the timeless lesson from King Bali’s sacrifice—that surrendering to God with pure devotion leads to eternal blessings and liberation.
What Rituals should be performed during Parsva Ekadashi 2025?
Observing Parsva Ekadashi vrat with devotion brings immense spiritual benefits. The rituals include:
- Fasting – Devotees observe strict fast from sunrise to the next day, consuming only fruits, milk, and water. Some may observe nirjala vrat (without food and water).
- Tulsi Worship – Tulsi is considered very dear to Lord Vishnu, and worshipping her on this day is highly auspicious.
- Puja of Lord Vishnu – Devotees offer flowers, incense, lamp, and fruits to Lord Vishnu. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama and Bhagavad Gita brings added blessings.
- Charity and Donations – Offering food, clothes, or dakshina to Brahmins and the needy is a vital part of the vrat.
- Jagran and Kirtan – Many devotees stay awake at night, chanting Vishnu mantras and singing bhajans in His praise.
What are the Benefits of Observing Parsva Ekadashi 2025?
Observing Parsva Ekadashi 2025 with devotion is considered a highly meritorious act. Scriptures state that fasting and worship on this sacred day yields benefits far greater than performing elaborate sacrifices or pilgrimages. Let’s understand its blessings in detail:
1. Liberation from Sins and Karmic Debts
Parsva Ekadashi is described in the Bhavishya Purana as a day that can erase even the gravest sins when the vrat is observed sincerely. Devotees believe that by fasting, chanting Lord Vishnu’s name, and performing puja, one is freed from negative karmas accumulated over lifetimes. This spiritual cleansing lightens the soul and removes obstacles caused by past deeds.
2. Spiritual Growth and Inner Peace
This Ekadashi falls in the midst of Chaturmas, a time dedicated to penance and devotion. By controlling desires, abstaining from food, and focusing on prayers, devotees strengthen their willpower and deepen their connection with the Divine. Meditation and reciting Vishnu Sahasranama on this day bring profound calmness, clarity, and inner balance.
3. Fulfillment of Desires and Prosperity
It is believed that Lord Vishnu, pleased with the sincerity of His devotees on Parsva Ekadashi, grants their heartfelt wishes. People observe this fast to seek relief from financial troubles, for growth in career or business, and for harmony in family life. Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi alongside Lord Vishnu on this day is said to attract wealth, abundance, and prosperity.
4. Blessings of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
By observing the Parsva Ekadashi vrat, devotees receive the combined blessings of Lord Vishnu (for protection and preservation) and Goddess Lakshmi (for prosperity and well-being). It is believed that sincere prayers on this day invite divine grace that ensures a life filled with stability, peace, and auspiciousness.
5. Progress Toward Moksha (Liberation)
The ultimate benefit of Parsva Ekadashi 2025 is liberation from the endless cycle of birth and death. By surrendering to Lord Vishnu, devotees transcend material attachments and move closer to the path of moksha. The vrat symbolizes letting go of ego, pride, and worldly desires—just as King Bali did when he surrendered himself completely to Lord Vamana.
Do’s and Don’ts During Parsva Ekadashi 2025
✅ Do’s on Parsva Ekadashi
- Observe Fasting (Vrat) – Keep a strict fast if possible, or at least a partial fast with fruits, milk, and water. The vrat should ideally last from sunrise on Ekadashi to sunrise the next day (Dwadashi).
- Wake up Early and Take a Holy Bath – Bathing before sunrise and wearing clean clothes purifies the body and mind for worship.
- Perform Vishnu Puja – Offer flowers, incense, lamps, Tulsi leaves, and fruits to Lord Vishnu. Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama or Bhagavad Gita is highly auspicious.
- Worship Tulsi Plant – Tulsi is beloved of Lord Vishnu. Lighting a lamp near the Tulsi plant brings immense merit.
- Engage in Charity – Donate food, grains, clothes, or money to Brahmins, the needy, or cows. Charity done on this day multiplies in its effects.
- Stay Spiritually Engaged – Spend time chanting Vishnu mantras, singing bhajans, or listening to stories of Lord Vishnu’s incarnations.
- Maintain Purity of Mind and Body – Practice truthfulness, humility, and non-violence throughout the day.
❌ Don’ts on Parsva Ekadashi
- Avoid Grains and Pulses – On Ekadashi, rice, lentils, beans, and other grains should not be consumed. Stick to fruits, milk, or sattvic food.
- Do Not Sleep During the Day – Daytime sleep is prohibited as it reduces the spiritual merit of the vrat. Instead, engage in prayer or kirtan.
- Avoid Anger, Arguments, or Negative Thoughts – Ekadashi is a day of devotion and purity, so avoid conflicts or negative speech.
- No Alcohol, Onion, or Garlic – These foods are considered tamasic (impure) and should be strictly avoided.
- Avoid Gossip and Idle Talk – Use the day for meditation, chanting, and reading scriptures instead of worldly discussions.
- Do Not Harm Any Living Being – Even unknowingly causing harm (like plucking Tulsi without respect) is discouraged. Show compassion to all creatures.
- Don’t Break the Fast Improperly – Always break the fast (Parana) the next day on Dwadashi after offering food first to Lord Vishnu and then consuming it.
Conclusion
The Parsva Ekadashi 2025 is not just a day of fasting but a gateway to deep spiritual connection, humility, and divine blessings. By observing this sacred vrat with devotion, one purifies the soul and paves the way for prosperity and liberation.
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FAQs on Parsva Ekadashi 2025
Q1. Why is Parsva Ekadashi called Parivartini Ekadashi?
It is called Parivartini Ekadashi because on this day, Lord Vishnu changes his position during his cosmic sleep in Chaturmas.
Q2. What should we donate on Parsva Ekadashi 2025?
Donating food, clothes, grains, or money is considered highly auspicious. Charity made on this day grants merit equivalent to performing great yagnas.
Q3. Can everyone observe Parsva Ekadashi fast?
Yes, men, women, and even elderly people can observe this vrat according to their health and capacity. Partial fasting with fruits and milk is also acceptable.
Q4. Which avatar of Vishnu is linked with Parsva Ekadashi?
Parsva Ekadashi is associated with Lord Vishnu’s Vamana Avatar and the story of King Bali’s surrender.
Q5. What are the benefits of Parsva Ekadashi 2025?
The benefits include forgiveness of sins, spiritual growth, peace of mind, prosperity, and divine grace from Lord Vishnu.