Papmochani Ekadashi

Papmochani Ekadashi, also known as the "sin-eradicating" Ekadashi, is a Hindu festival celebrated on the eleventh day of the Hindu lunar month of Phalguna. This festival is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion by Hindus all over the world, who believe that observing the fast and performing rituals on this day can help them get rid of their sins and achieve salvation.

The significance of Papmochani Ekadashi
According to Hindu mythology, Papmochani Ekadashi is associated with Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. It is believed that by observing a fast and performing puja rituals on this day, one can get rid of their sins and attain spiritual purity. The festival is also associated with the legend of a hunter named Kubera who was a staunch devotee of Lord Vishnu. He accidentally killed a sage while hunting and was deeply remorseful. He sought refuge in Lord Vishnu, who advised him to observe a fast on Papmochani Ekadashi to atone for his sins. Kubera followed the advice and was eventually freed from his sins and granted salvation.

Celebrations on Papmochani Ekadashi
Papmochani Ekadashi is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm by Hindus all over the world. On this day, devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes. They then visit the nearest Vishnu temple and offer prayers and puja rituals to Lord Vishnu. The puja includes offering flowers, fruits, sweets, and lighting incense sticks and lamps. Some devotees also perform a havan or yagna to seek blessings and forgiveness from the Lord.
Observing a fast is an essential part of Papmochani Ekadashi celebrations. Devotees refrain from eating any kind of food or drinking water throughout the day and spend the day in meditation, chanting hymns and mantras, and reading the holy scriptures. Some people also engage in charitable activities on this day, such as donating food, clothes, and money to the poor and needy.
The fast is broken on the next day, Dwadashi, by eating simple vegetarian food. Devotees believe that by observing the fast and performing puja rituals on Papmochani Ekadashi, they can get rid of their sins, achieve spiritual purity, and attain salvation.