This year, the Ekadashi of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) during the month of *Vaishakh*known as Mohini Ekadashi-will be celebrated in Faridabad with deep reverence and faith.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this fast (*Vrat*) is considered to be extremely meritorious. It is believed that observing this fast and performing worship with a sincere heart on this day alleviates life's sorrows and fulfills one's wishes. It is particularly essential for those observing the Ekadashi fast for the very first time to be well-versed in its specific rules and rituals.

**When is the Mohini Ekadashi Fast?**
Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya of the Udaseen Ashram in Ballabhgarh stated that the Mohini Ekadashi fast will be observed on Monday, April 27th. This Ekadashi is not merely a fast; rather, it serves as a means to guide one's life in the right direction. Even Lord Rama once requested his Guru, Sage Vashistha, to reveal a fast that could eradicate sins and grant liberation from suffering. It was then that Sage Vashistha expounded upon the significance of Mohini Ekadashi.

Narrating a mythological tale, Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya recounted the story of a merchant (*Vaishya*) named Dhanpal who lived in a certain town. He had five sons, the eldest of whom fell into bad company. After being expelled from his home, the eldest son resorted to theft; eventually, wandering through the forest, he began to sustain himself by hunting wild animals. One day, by a stroke of destiny, he came into contact with a sage, and his conscience was awakened. He sought a remedy to absolve himself of his sins. The sage then advised him to observe the Mohini Ekadashi fast. After observing the fast in accordance with the prescribed rituals, his life underwent a complete transformation.

**Mohini Ekadashi is associated with Lord Vishnu's Mohini Avatar**
Mahant Kameshwaranand Vedantacharya explained that Mohini Ekadashi is intrinsically linked to Lord Vishnu's *Mohini* avatar (incarnation). During the *Samudra Manthan* (the Churning of the Ocean), the Lord assumed the enchanting form of Mohini to distribute the divine nectar (*Amrit*) among the *Devas* (gods). Since that time, this particular Ekadashi has been accorded special significance. This fast is believed to absolve an individual of their sins and usher in happiness and prosperity in their life. The observance of the fast effectively begins on the *Dashami Tithi* (the tenth day of the lunar fortnight) itself. On this day, one should consume *Sattvic* (pure and wholesome) food only once and strictly observe *Brahmacharya* (celibacy). On the day of Ekadashi, one should take a morning bath and offer prayers to both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. One may observe a fruit-only diet throughout the day, or, in accordance with one's personal faith, may choose to observe a *Nirjala* (waterless) fast. Fruits such as bananas, apples, guavas, and pomegranates may be consumed. Additionally, dishes prepared from buckwheat (*Kuttu*) are also permissible.