Kamada Ekadashi 1981

Kamada Ekadashi is a Ekadashi vrat observed according to the Hindu calendar. Its date and customary practices can vary by region and local Panchang.

Kamada Ekadashi is observed on Chaitra Shukla Ekadashi. The traditional katha tells of Lalit, a Gandharva singer at King Pundarika's court, and his wife Lalita. During a royal performance Lalit became distracted thinking of his absent wife and lost the rhythm of his song. The king became angry and cursed him to turn into a fearsome rakshasa. Lalita refused to abandon him despite his frightening appearance and the suffering that followed.

As they wandered, Lalita sought help from Sage Shringi. After listening to her grief, the sage advised observance of Kamada Ekadashi and the dedication of its spiritual merit to her husband. Lalita worshipped Vishnu and completed the vow with devotion. According to the story the curse ended, Lalit recovered his Gandharva form and the couple were reunited in happiness. The account teaches loyalty, patience and hope for transformation; its supernatural events are matters of religious faith.

Devotees pray to Vishnu and may keep a health-appropriate fast followed by Dwadashi parana at the prescribed local time. The story must not be mixed with Jaya Ekadashi, whose distinct protagonists are Malyavan and Pushpavati. Smarta and Vaishnava date conventions sometimes differ.

The first of the new lunar year, in Chaitra sud, and named for the granting of what is wished. Kept immediately after Chaitra Navratri and Ram Navami.

Worship Vishnu, listen to the katha and fast as health allows; break the fast at the correct Dwadashi parana time.

The first ekadashi of the new year, in the bright fortnight of Chaitra. The ordinary fast: one meal on the tenth, nothing on the eleventh, the parana in the morning of the twelfth.

Chaitra Shukla Ekadashi; Smarta and Vaishnava dates or parana may vary.