Rama Ekadashi

The glories of Rama Ekadashi are described in the Brahmanda Purana through a conversation between Lord Krishna and Maharaja Yudhishthira.

Once, Yudhishthira Maharaja asked Lord Krishna about the Ekadashi that occurs during the Krishna Paksha of Kartika and requested Him to explain its significance. Lord Krishna narrated the history of the righteous King Muchukunda, a great devotee who faithfully observed Ekadashi and worshiped Lord Vishnu. King Muchukunda ruled his kingdom according to dharma and remained dedicated to devotional service throughout his life.

During that time, his daughter Chandrabhaga was also a devoted observer of Ekadashi. From childhood she strictly followed all Ekadashi vows and inspired others to engage in devotional practices. Chandrabhaga was married to a prince named Shobhana. Once, during a visit to King Muchukunda’s kingdom, Rama Ekadashi arrived. Since Ekadashi fasting was strictly observed throughout the kingdom, everyone was required to follow the vrata.

Although Shobhana was physically weak and unable to tolerate fasting, he decided to observe Rama Ekadashi out of respect for the sacred day. Throughout the day and night, he engaged in remembrance of Lord Vishnu and completed the fast. Due to his weakened condition, Shobhana eventually left his body. However, because he had faithfully observed Rama Ekadashi, he attained a glorious celestial kingdom filled with extraordinary opulence.

Later, Chandrabhaga learned of her husband’s exalted destination. Through the spiritual merit accumulated by her lifelong observance of Ekadashi and her devotion to Lord Vishnu, she was able to join her husband in that divine realm. Lord Krishna explained that the immense blessings obtained by Shobhana and Chandrabhaga were solely due to the power of Rama Ekadashi. Thus, this sacred Ekadashi became renowned for granting prosperity, spiritual elevation, and the mercy of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.