Ekadashi, or Ekadasi Vrat, is observed on the eleventh day of a fortnight in a Hindu lunar calendar. The date (s) of Ekadashi in August 2011 – August 9 and August 25. The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and many devotees undertake Upvaas or fasting on the day. There are two Ekadashis in a lunar month.
The Ekadashi Vrat on August 9, 2011 is known as Pavitra Ekadashi. In some regions this Ekadasi is known as Putrada Ekadasi.
The Ekadasi on August 25, 2011 is known as Aja Ekadasi. In North India and in some parts of eastern India, the Ekadasi is referred as Jaya 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.
