Shattila Ekadashi

Once, Sage Narada asked Lord Krishna how people burdened by sinful reactions could become purified and attain His mercy. In response, Lord Krishna narrated a wonderful pastime.

Long ago, there lived a pious Brahmani who was deeply devoted to spiritual practices. She regularly observed fasting, worshipped the Lord, and performed many austerities. In fact, she once fasted for an entire month, becoming physically weak due to her strict vows. Although she was sincere in her worship and austerities, she had one significant shortcoming—she never gave food, charity, or donations to others. She rarely helped the needy, fed guests, or offered charity to saintly persons.

Wanting to teach an important lesson, Lord Krishna appeared before her disguised as a wandering Brahmana and approached her home asking for alms. Instead of offering food, grains, or charity, the Brahmani became annoyed and dropped a lump of clay into His begging bowl. Lord Krishna accepted it and returned to His abode. After her lifetime ended, the Brahmani attained a beautiful celestial residence due to her many austerities and devotional practices. However, upon entering her heavenly palace, she discovered that it was completely empty. There was no food, prosperity, or enjoyment.

Confused and distressed, she approached Lord Krishna and asked why she had received an empty palace despite years of fasting and worship. Lord Krishna explained, “You performed many austerities and worshipped Me sincerely, but you never shared your blessings with others. You offered no food in charity and showed little compassion toward those in need. Therefore, you have received the results of your actions.” The Lord then instructed her to return to her palace and wait for celestial ladies who would soon visit her. When they arrived, she should ask them about the glories and observance of Shattila Ekadashi before opening the door.

Following Krishna’s instructions, she listened carefully as the heavenly ladies explained the importance of Shattila Ekadashi, its observance, and the value of charity, especially the offering of food and sesame. Inspired by their teachings, the Brahmani properly observed Shattila Ekadashi with devotion, charity, and a compassionate heart. As a result, her palace immediately became filled with food, wealth, prosperity, and spiritual opulence.

Through this pastime, Lord Krishna taught that fasting should be accompanied by kindness, charity, and service to others.