Mohini Ekadashi is a sacred Hindu festival observed with deep devotion across various regions, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh, as per the Hindu calendar (Tamil calendar, Telugu calendar, etc.). It falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the waxing moon in the month of Vaishakha (April-May). Devotees undertake a vrat (fast) on this day to seek spiritual purification and blessings from Lord Vishnu. This Ekadashi is especially revered for its power to dispel ignorance and remove past sins.

Mohini Ekadashi 2025: Date and Tithi

For those observing Mohini Ekadashi in 2025, the key timings are as follows:

• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 10:19 AM on May 7, 2025
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 12:29 PM on May 8, 2025
• Parana (Breaking the Fast): Between 05:34 AM and 08:16 AM, on May 9
• Dwadashi End Moment: 02:56 PM on May 9, 2025

It is important to perform Parana within the Dwadashi Tithi, as failing to do so is considered inauspicious. Devotees should also avoid breaking the fast during Hari Vasara, the first quarter of Dwadashi.

Significance of Mohini Ekadashi

The name ‘Mohini’ is derived from the enchanting form of Lord Vishnu, who took on a mesmerizing female avatar to distribute divine nectar (amrit) among the Devas, ensuring their victory over the Asuras. Observing Mohini Ekadashi is believed to bestow devotees with clarity of thought, peace of mind, and liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Hindus across different regions, following various calendars such as the Tamil and Telugu calendars, celebrate this day with great reverence.

Rituals and Celebrations

The observance of Mohini Ekadashi includes strict fasting, prayers, and devotion to Lord Vishnu. Here are some key aspects of the ritual:

• Fasting (Vrat): Devotees abstain from grains, pulses, and certain vegetables, consuming only fruits, milk, and water. Some observe a nirjala (waterless) fast.
• Puja and Bhajans: Special prayers are offered to Lord Vishnu, and temples conduct bhajans and kirtans in His praise.
• Parana (Breaking the Fast): The fast is broken on the next day (Dwadashi) after sunrise during the prescribed Parana time.
• Charity and Good Deeds: Many devotees engage in charitable acts, feeding the needy and donating to temples.

Mythological Story of Mohini Ekadashi

The story of Mohini Ekadashi is narrated in the Surya Purana, where Maharaja Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, asked Lord Krishna about the significance of this sacred day. In response, Lord Krishna recounted an ancient tale once told by Sage Vasistha to Lord Rama.

According to the legend, there was a prosperous city named Bhadravati, ruled by a virtuous king named Dyutimana. In this city lived a wealthy Vaishya (merchant) named Dhanapala, renowned for his piety and philanthropy. However, his youngest son, Dhrstabuddhi, was wayward, indulging in sinful activities and disrespecting elders, priests, and guests.

Due to his misdeeds, Dhrstabuddhi was cast out of his home and society. Wandering in distress, he resorted to theft and other crimes, leading to his exile from the kingdom. Eventually, he found himself in a dense forest, living a life of extreme hardship. One day, he stumbled upon the hermitage of Sage Kaundinya. By chance, a drop of water from the sage’s garments touched him, and he was instantly relieved of some of his past sins.

With a repentant heart, he sought guidance from the sage, who advised him to observe Mohini Ekadashi with full devotion. Following the vrat with sincerity, Dhrstabuddhi attained spiritual purification and, upon leaving his mortal body, ascended to Vaikuntha, the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.

Conclusion

Mohini Ekadashi is a spiritually significant day that helps devotees cleanse their minds, overcome material illusions, and progress toward moksha (liberation). By following the prescribed fasting rules and engaging in prayer and charity, one can experience profound spiritual upliftment. Observed with devotion in Tamil, Telugu, and Kerala regions, this festival continues to inspire faith and righteousness among Hindu devotees worldwide.