Dedicated to Hindu God Vishnu, Ekadashi Vrat is observed on the eleventh day of a fortnight in a Hindu lunar calendar. Ekadashi dates in July 2012 – July 14 and July 29. On Ekadasi, Fasting from sunrise to next day morning sunrise is generally observed by many Hindus. Some observe the fast from the start time of Ekadasi Tithi and break the fast at the beginning of Dwadasi Tithi.
The Ekadashi Vrat on July 29, 2012 is known as Pavitra Ekadashi .In some regions this Ekadasi is known as Putrada Ekadasi.
The preparation for Ekadashi fasting begins on the Dasami day – the day before Ekadasi. On the Ekadasi day, devotees observe complete fast. The day is meant for hearing religious discourses and performing pujas.
There are also devotees who do not observe total fast. They avoid grains especially rice and consume fruits, nuts and milk.
The fasting comes to an end on the Dwadashi day with the consuming of food cooked in one’s house.
