Moksada Ekadashi

The glories of Moksada Ekadashi are described in the Puranas through a conversation between Lord Krishna and Maharaja Yudhishthira.

Once, Yudhishthira Maharaja asked Lord Krishna about the Ekadashi that occurs during the bright fortnight of Margashirsha and requested Him to explain its significance and benefits. Lord Krishna narrated the history of a righteous king named Vaikhanasa who ruled his kingdom with great wisdom and devotion. One night, the king saw a disturbing dream in which his deceased father was suffering in a lower planetary region due to reactions from previous activities.

Deeply distressed by this vision, King Vaikhanasa sought guidance from learned brahmanas and sages. They advised him to approach the great sage Parvata Muni for spiritual counsel. After hearing the king’s concerns, Parvata Muni used his divine vision and confirmed that the king’s father was indeed suffering because of past karmic reactions. The compassionate sage then instructed King Vaikhanasa to observe the upcoming Moksada Ekadashi with full faith and devotion and offer the spiritual merit of the vrata for the benefit of his father.

Following the sage’s instructions, the king observed Moksada Ekadashi by fasting, worshipping Lord Vishnu, chanting His holy names, offering prayers, and engaging in devotional activities throughout the day. By the immense spiritual power of Moksada Ekadashi, the king’s father was freed from his suffering and elevated to a higher spiritual destination. The celestial beings glorified the king for his devotion, and Lord Vishnu bestowed His blessings upon him.

Thus, Moksada Ekadashi became renowned as the Ekadashi that grants liberation, uplifts ancestors, and bestows the mercy of Lord Hari.

Moksada Ekadashi reminds us that true liberation comes through surrender to Lord Krishna and faithful observance of devotional practices. Just as King Vaikhanasa was able to uplift his father through the power of this sacred vrata, devotees who sincerely observe Moksada Ekadashi receive the mercy of Lord Hari, spiritual purification, and progress toward the ultimate goal of life—returning to the eternal abode of the Lord.