Jaya Ekadashi is coming on 21 February 2013.
Jaya Ekadasi is observed during the waxing phase of the moon (Shukla
Paksha) in the month of January/February. It is also
observed as Bhishma Ekadashi
and Bhoumi Ekadasi by various Hindu communities. It is believed that
observing Jaya Ekadashi will help in getting rid of remorse attached to
sins committed and it also leads to liberation (Moksha).
About Jaya Ekadashi Vrat
Jaya Ekadashi falls in the month of Magh according to the traditional
Hindu lunar calendar. It occurs on the 11th day during Shukla Paksha,
that is, during the waxing phase of the moon. While the North Indians
observe this ritual as Jaya Ekadashi, in South India, it is observed as
Bhisma Ekadashi or Bheesma Ekadashi, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and
Karnataka. Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe vrat on Jaya Ekadashi as
they consider it to be highly beneficial. The fast calls for double
worshipping since the Ekadashi is auspicious for Lord Vishnu while the
month in which it is observed is Magh, regarded fortunate for Shiva
pujas. Continue reading to learn about the story of Jaya Ekadashi and
the method for observing the vrat.
How To Observe Jaya Ekadasi Vrat
Legends say that Bhishma chose this period to relieve his body and rise
for the heavenly abode with the Supreme Soul (Brahman). While lying in
a bed of arrows after the war of Mahabharata, Bhishma divulged Vishnu
Sahasranama Stothram, or Lord Vishnu, to the Pandavas on this day. This
Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram was revealed in the presence of Lord
Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Hence, this day is highly
auspicious in the Hindu mythology which is observed with immense trust
and respect.
Hindu devotees consider observing a vrat, or fast, on Jaya Ekadashi
will assist in eradicating the sins committed by one. They also believe
that doing so will help them achieve salvation or liberation (Moksha).
While pious devotees observe a complete fast on this day, some opt for
a partial fast. On the day before Jaya Ekadashi, people consume a
single meal as a part of preparation for the fast. On Jaya Ekadashi,
devotees rise up early and take a bath after which they offer their
morning prayers to Lord Vishnu.
The vrat is observed for 24 hours, either full or partial abstinence
from food. Foods like rice, grains, honey, and eating in a bell metal
plate. However, fruits, nuts, milk products, vegetables and dried
fruits can be consumed. Firm Vishnu devotees keep awake during the
entire night and spend their time at Vishnu temples by singing hymns or
listening to stories devoted to Lord Vishnu. On the next morning, after
bathing and offering prayers, a lamp is lit and the vrat is hence
broken.
Recipe of Jaya Ekadashi -Potato and lotus stem in samo rice stew
Ingredients
Potatoes- 2 large, diced
Lotus stem- 250 grams
Green chilies- 2 nos., finely chopped
Red chili powder- 3 tsp
Salt- To taste
Oil- 5 tbsp
Ghee- 1 tsp
Water- 700 ml
Samo rice(Bhagar) flour- 3 tbsp mixed with sufficient water to make paste.
Method
Clean lotus stem, cut diagonal slices of it, boil it for 4 whistles in a pressure cooker with a little salt and 1 tsp of ghee. keep aside when done.
Heat oil in a cooker, add green chilies and red chili powder and stirring, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Add potatoes and lotus stem, salt and mix well so that the spices coat it. Fry it like this for a couple of minutes.
Add water and let it come to boil. Now put on the lid and let it cook for 2 whistles.
When the pressure is released stir in samo rice flour paste, and boil it for 5-7 minutes till the stew thickens a little.
Serve hot with Samo rice kokis.
