Aja Ekadashi Parana 2022

As “Ekadashi” refers to the eleventh day of a lunar fortnight, there are two Ekadashis- one during the waning and the other during the waxing period. Aja Ekadashi is also popularly known as Annada Ekadashi. It is an important day which falls in the month of Bhadra (August-September) as per the Hindu Calendar.

The day is extremely spiritual in nature and emphasizes on control over the needs of one’s body, emotions and hunger. The fast is believed to purify one’s soul by virtue of which a person can attain salvation. It is held in high regard by devotees of Lord Vishnu all across the country. The celebration of Aja Ekadashi involves observation of a fast which is believed to result in the washing away of all the sins committed by the devotee.

Parana means breaking the fast. Ekadashi Parana is done after sunrise on next day of Ekadashi fast. It is necessary to do Parana within Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi is over before sunrise. Not doing Parana within Dwadashi is similar to an offence.

Parana should not be done during Hari Vasara. One should wait for Hari Vasara to get over before breaking the fast. Hari Vasara is first one fourth duration of Dwadashi Tithi. The most preferred time to break the fast is Pratahkal. One should avoid breaking the fast during Madhyana. If due to some reasons one is not able to break the fast during Pratahkal then one should do it after Madhyana.

At times Ekadashi fasting is suggested on two consecutive days. It is advised that Smartha with family should observe fasting on first day only. The alternate Ekadashi fasting, which is the second one, is suggested for Sanyasis, widows and for those who want Moksha. When alternate Ekadashi fasting is suggested for Smartha it coincides with Vaishnava Ekadashi fasting day.

Ekadashi fasting on both days is suggested for staunch devotees who seek for love and affection of Lord Vishnu.