Amalaki Ekadasi

Amalaki Ekadashi occurs on the 11th day in the Phalgun month of the Hindu lunar calendar during the waxing or bright phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha).

Dedicated to Amlaki or Gooseberry Tree, observance of this Ekadashi is believed to bring in great prosperity and benefits.If the Ekadashi falls on a Thursday, it is regarded as even more auspicious and is observed with special prayers and rituals. The next day of Amalaki Ekadashi is also considered to be highly fortunate and is known as Govinda Dwadashi.

The god Vishnu, for whom ekadashis are sacred, is believed to reside in the tree. The Amla tree is ritually worshipped on this day to get the grace of the deity. The day also marks the beginning of the central celebrations of the festival of Holi, the Hindu festival of colours.

On this day, special prayers are offered to Amalaki tree and Lord Parashurama. A person practicing the Amalaki Ekadashi fast should cleanse himself with water and offer water to the Amalaki tree. The tree is then worshipped using incense, sandalwood, roli, flowers, etc. Thereafter, the Brahmins are served with meals beneath the Amalaki tree. Most devotees observe a vrat on this day following the rituals demanded on other Ekadashi vrats. Some even keep a vigil in the night. However, some people observe a partial fast, simply abstaining from food made of rice and grains.

2017 Date : 8^th March.