Tomorrow is Ekadashi(Parivartani Ekadashi / Vaman Ekadashi)

On this Ekadasi day Lord Vishnu who reclines on Aadishesha turns to another side and this turn is called as Parivarthan.
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Parsava Ekadashi which is also known as Parivartini, Vamana and Jayanti Ekadashi is observed during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Bhadrapada i.e. August and September. It is important to note that ‘Parivartini’ means ‘of change’ and denotes a time when Shesh-Shayi Narayan (form of God laying on the serpent Shesh) changes his position, posture, direction and faces the East. One must note that this Ekadasi happens during the Dakshinayana Punyakalam. It is interesting to note the famous age old belief that Lord Vishnu who takes rest during this period changes his posture of sleep namely he turns from left side to right side. It is because of this reason that this Ekadashi is also known as Parsva Parivartini Ekadashi.

As a matter of practice Vamana Avatar of Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this Ekadashi day. The reason as to why this Ekadasi is also known as Vamana Ekadashi is simply because Vamana Avatar took place during this period. As a matter of fact King Mahabali was sent to pathalam on this day and therefore the Onam festival which celebrates the return of Mahabali takes place during this period.

Historical literature reveals that the importance and relevance of this Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhisthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, by Lord Krishna. Yudhisthira was inquisitive regarding the history, relevance and purport of the Ekadashi and wanted Lord Krishna to enlighten him. In reply to the queries he was informed that Ekadashi bestows both great merit and ultimate liberation from material bondage and that if one truly desires salvation from the material world he should fast on Vamana Ekadashi.

It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi will be absolved of their sins. As per the religious calendar this Ekadashi also happens during the Chaturmas period. As a matter of practice those who undertake fast on this day avoid grains and rice.Practically while observing this holy fast a Vaishnava should lovingly worship the Supreme Lord in his form as Vamanadeva i.e. the dwarf incarnation, whose eyes are like lotus petals.
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HSVJ