What is Ekadashi (Agiyaras)?

Definition

Ekadashi (called "Agiyaras" in Gujarati) is the 11th lunar day (tithi) of each lunar month. It occurs twice monthly — once during Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and once during Krishna Paksha (waning moon). There are 24 Ekadashis in a year (sometimes 26 in a leap year).

Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is considered the holiest day for fasting and devotion. In the Vaishnava tradition, observing every Ekadashi fast is of great significance.

"Agiyaras" — The Gujarati Name

In Gujarati, Ekadashi is called "Agiyaras" — from "Agiyaar" (eleven) + "ras" (day). This dialect form is universal in Gujarat. Two days before each Agiyaras comes "Nom" (9th tithi), and one day after is "Baras" (12th tithi).

Fasting Rules

Avoid:

  • Rice — the most important rule of Ekadashi fasting
  • Wheat and grains (roti, bread)
  • Lentils and legumes (dal, chickpeas, rajma)
  • Onion and garlic
  • Regular salt (use rock salt / sendha namak)

Allowed:

  • Fruits, milk, yogurt, butter
  • Potato, sweet potato, yam
  • Sabudana (sago / tapioca pearls)
  • Peanuts, dry fruits, nuts
  • Rock salt (sendha namak)
IMPORTANT EKADASHIS
Nirjala Ekadashi (Bhim Agiyaras)
The most powerful Ekadashi — observed without even water. Falls in Jyeshtha month. Equal merit of all 24 Ekadashis combined.
Dev Uthhi Ekadashi (Prabodhini)
Marks the end of Chaturmas — Lord Vishnu awakens from cosmic sleep. Kartik Shukla Ekadashi. Weddings resume after this day.
Mokshada Ekadashi (Gita Jayanti)
Day when Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi. Grants moksha (liberation).
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