Rules for Ekadashi Vrat:
Ekadashi Tithi of every lunar fortnight is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu. On this day, devotees keep a day's fast.
What to do on Ekadashi day:
◉ Ekadashi is the eleventh day of the lunar cycle according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
◉ The day is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu, who maintains and preserves life on earth.
◉ Devotees observe a one-day fast - to attain salvation and take refuge in Vaikuntha, the heavenly abode of Bhagwan Vishnu
The devotees of Shri Vishnu observe a one-day fast on Ekadashi Tithi (the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight). By fasting on Ekadashi tithi, devotees pray to Bhagwan Vishnu to attain salvation and take refuge in his divine abode Vaikuntha. If you wish to observe a fast on this auspicious day, read on to know the fasting rules, fasting method and do's and don'ts.
Ekadashi fasting rules
◉ Wake up early in the morning.
◉ Take a shower and wear clean clothes.
◉ Maintain celibacy.
◉ Avoid onions, garlic, meat, rice, wheat, pulses and legumes in any form.
◉ Avoid smoking and alcohol.
◉ Eat Vrat bhojan or fruits and milk only.
◉ Donate food or essential items to the needy.
◉ In short, Ekadashi fasting is all about self-discipline.
Ekadashi Vrat Puja Method
◉ Take a dip in the holy water. While others can wake up early and take a bath.
◉ Wear clean clothes after bathing.
◉ Light an oil lamp in the temple area of your home and meditate.
◉ Then invoke Bhagwan Vishnu and seek his blessings.
◉ Make a resolution (pledge) to observe Ekadashi fast with sincerity and with all your heart. Offer water, flowers, incense, deep and naivedya to Bhagwan Vishnu. You can prepare kheer or halwa or any other sweet. You can also offer fruits.
◉ Read Ekadashi fasting story. Each Ekadashi fast has a different story associated with it.
◉ Keep chanting 'Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya'.
◉ You can also recite Vishnu Sahasranama or chant the name.
◉ In the evening, light an oil lamp, incense and pray to Bhagwan Vishnu. Offer flowers and bhog or fruits.
◉ End the worship by performing aarti.
◉ Next morning, when it is Dwadashi Tithi, break the fast after taking bath and praying to Bhagwan Vishnu .