Vijaya Ekadashi Importance: What is Vijaya Ekadashi and why is it celebrated?

Ekashi is eleventh day of each of two lunar cycles that are followed in Hindu Calendar. Each Ekashi is an auspicious event for Hindus and is celebrated with religious ceremonies and Pujas. Today, February 18, 2020, is  Vijaya Ekashi, that is dedicated to Lord Ram and is an auspicious day to all those who are worshipers of deity. Here is a look at history of Vijaya Ekashi, Vijaya Ekashi importance, as well as why it is celebrated across India. 

Vijaya Ekashi Importance: Why is this auspicious day celebrated by Hindus

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What is Vijaya Ekashi?

Like every or Ekashi, Vijaya Ekashi is eleventh day of a lunar cycle. However, this day is highly auspicious due to its historical association with Lord Ram. It is said that it was on this Lunar Day that Lord Ram observed a Vrat (fast) to find a way to cross ocean and reach Lanka. It was only after this Vijaya Ekashi Vrat that Lord Ram learnt secret to building floating stone bridge that led him to Ravan's country.

Why is Vijaya Ekashi celebrated?

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Vijaya Ekashi is celebrated each year during Krishna Paksha of Hindu Lunar Cycle. t only is festival dedicated to Lord Ram but it is also considered to be a way to wash off guilt caused by sins a person committed previous year. Maintaining  Vijaya Ekashi Vrat is also believed to help people attain victory over ir foes or overcome challenges. 

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Followers of Lord Ram and Vishnu celebrate this auspicious day by waking up early in morning and chanting Vishnu Sahasranam while taking a ritual bath. fast (Vrat) must be held for entire day and can only be broken at night after chanting Vishnu Sahasranam once again. person holding  Vrat can only have one small meal during fast, which may include a fruit or some milk. 

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