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From the Narasimha Purana and Bhavishya Purana


Sankatahara Chatruthi, or Sankashti Chaturthi is a monthly fasting
dedicated Lord Ganesha. Chandrodaya or Moon rise time in India is
9:54 PM. The Vrata is observed on the fourth day of the Krishna
Paksha (waning phase of moon) in a traditional Hindu month.
Sankashti Chaturthi fasting is considered to be highly auspicious by
Lord Ganesh devotees.

Sankashta Chaturti Fasting is observed on the Chaturthi falling after full moon ² fourth
day after Purnima. It begins at sunrise and ends after evening puja or after sighting
the moon. Lord Ganesha Temples conduct special pujas on the day.
Lord Ganesha is known as Pillayar and Sankatahara Shaturthi in Tamil culture and it is
a highly auspicious day.Sankashta Chaturthi is also a highly auspicious day in Marathi
culture. Numerous people observe fast on the day inMaharashtra.
It is widely believed that observing Sankashta Chaturthi will bring prosperity,
happiness, fulfillment of desires and remove obstacles. The greatness of Sankashti
Chaturthi Vrata was explained by Lord Krishna to Yudhishtira, the eldest of the
Pandavas. It is also detailed in the Narasimha Purana and Bhavishaya Purana.

The legend or story or Vrat Katha of Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi is associated with
King Shursen, Lord Indra and sage Brushundi. The legend or katha goes like this:
Once God Indra·s Vimana (plane) returning to home from sage Brushundi (a great
devotee of Lord Ganesha), was going above king Shursen·s kingdom. One person who
has done many sins in his life saw that plane in the sky. With his single look the plane
landed on the ground. Surprised by the brightness of the plane, king went to see the
plane.
The king was very much pleased and saluted God Indra. He asked God Indra the
reason for landing of the plane. God Indra told him that a sinner from your kingdom
looked at the plane, due to his sins the plane landed on the ground. King Shursen
asked Lord Indra how the plane could start again.
Lord Indra told him that today is Panchami, yesterday was the Chaturthi. A person,
who fasted yesterday, gives his virtue to me then my plane will start. Soldiers
searched the whole kingdom for the person who did fasting on Chaturthi. But
unfortunately no one was there.
At the same moment some soldiers saw a recently dead woman being taken away by
Ganesh-Duta (a soldier of Lord Ganesha). They asked him that how can you take such
a sinner woman to Ganesh loka. Ganesh-Duta replied that yesterday whole night she
was in sleep and had not eaten anything. She woke up late night after moon-rise and
ate some food. Without knowing it she did Sankashti Chaturthi upvas vratam . She
died today.
The soldier also said that a person, who does Sankashti Chaturthi at least once in life-

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time, goes to Ganesh loka or Swananda loka after death. Soldiers requested Ganesh-
Duta to give that womans body to them so that the plane could start. But he refused
to give virtue of that woman to soldiers. The wind which blew from the dead womans
body diffused at the place where the plane of Lord Indra was stopped. The air was
made virtuous with the air diffused from the dead body of woman. It means that the
wind that touched the virtuous body of dead woman also become virtuous.
This story tells the significance of Sankashti Vinayaka Chavithi and signifies the
spiritual importance of Sankata chavithi vratam fasting.
Devotees of Lord Ganesh believe that if a person who observes Sankshta Chathurthi
vrat would collect lot of virtues. The person goes directly to the Swanand-loka where
he can enjoy the prosperity and blessings of the Lord. There is a strong belief in
Hinduism that a person takes seven births before she/he gets Moksha (salvation) but,
the person who will do the Sankashta-Chathurthi will go Ganesh loka or Swanand loka
directly and his rebirth will be stopped.

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‘ On the day of Sankashtachaturthi, if possible, one should live without
food. If at all food is required, only sattvik diet like water, fruit, roots,
milk etc. should be consumed.

× Î   { 





‘ In the Sankashtachaturthi vrat, one takes a bath in the evening and
arranges the ritualistic worship of Sri Ganeshji with sixteen substances.
The idol of Sri Ganeshji used in the daily worship is installed for the
worship. If there is no idol in the daily worship, a betel nut is kept on a
mound of rice as a symbol of Sri Ganeshji and it is ritualistically
worshipped. The red Hibiscus and Durva are kept along with the leaves
of various other plants.
‘ The worship is begun with sipping of water from the palm
(achaman), pranayam and making a resolve. Thereafter the worshipper
purifies his body along with all the substances to be used in the worship
by sprinkling water on them.
‘ The Deity of Varun invoked in the water in the copper pitcher (kalash) is
worshipped and thereafter Sri Ganeshji is invoked. The idol of Sri
Ganeshji is kept in a copper platter. Water is released on the feet of this
idol and arghya and achaman are offered.

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‘ After this, the idol of Sri Ganeshji is given panchamrut snan, that is, a
bath with milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar. Thereafter a bath is given
with water mixed with sandalwood paste. Now the recitation of Sri
Ganapati Atharvashirsha is done and the idol of Sri Ganeshji is
consecrated with water.
‘ After consecration with water, the idol is washed with pure water,
wiped with a cloth and kept on the seat. Now Sri Ganeshji is offered
cotton clothes. Thereafter a Holy thread is offered. After this, red
sandalwood paste, turmeric powder and vermilion are offered. Scent is
also offered.
‘ The red Hibiscus flowers are especially offered to Sri Ganeshji. After
offering the flowers, the idol of Sri Ganeshji is worshipped with various
types of leaves. In this, along with the Durva, the leaves of twenty-one
plants like Malati, Bhrungaraj, Ber, Jasmine, Ashok, Shami, Kadamba,
Pomegranate etc. are offered.
‘ After the worship with leaves, a Durva is offered along with each of the
Names of Sri Ganeshji as given in the booklet of
SriGaneshasahasranamavali. If it is not possible to offer one thousand
Durva, one can offer one hundred Durva and if even that is not possible,
at least twenty one Durva are offered.

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‘ In order to gain more benefit of the Ganesh Principle, modak which
attract this Principle is offered as a Holy sacrament (naivedya). If it is
not possible to prepare modak, jaggery and dry coconut should be
offered. Arati of Sri Ganeshji is performed. After the worship of Sri
Ganeshji, the priest is offered the modak. To complete the offering,
money as dakshina along with betel leaf, betel nut and dry coconut is
offered.
‘ The mantra of Sri Ganeshji is recited 21 times, the consecrated rice is
offered for immersion of Varun Deity and the darshan of the moon is
taken.
‘ Other mantras for Ganesh include Ganesh Ashtothrashatanamavali,
Sankashta Nashana Stotram, Brahmanaspatisukta and Sri Ganesha
Atharvashirsham.

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‘ The worship of the moon assumes special importance in
the Sankashtachaturthi vrat. If possible, one should go out of the house
and take darshan of the moon. The substances are offered to the moon
in a copper platter. If for some reason the moon is not visible in the sky,
an image of the moon is made as a symbol and worshipped. If this is not
possible, a picture of the moon is drawn withrangoli on a wooden seat or
a stool and it is worshipped. Sandalwood paste and flowers are offered
to the moon. Incense stick and lamp are waved in front of it. Now Holy
sacrament (naivedya) is offered to the moon.
‘ After the worship of the moon, arghya is offered three times ² once for
the Chaturthi tithi, once for Mahaganapati and thereafter once
for sankashtanashan Sri Ganeshji. In the end the fourth arghya is offered
to the moon. After praying for the welfare of all, the worship is
concluded.

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‘ The host can consume food after the evening worship of Sri Ganeshji and
the worship of the moon. The host should consume food prepared as the
Holy sacrament as a prasad. It is the ritual of the Sankashtachaturthi
vrat to take meals at the time of moon rise. Hence, this meal is not for
breaking the fast, but as a part of the vrat, that is, Vratangabhojan.
‘ The meaning of consuming a meal means consuming cooked rice along
with other items of food. The reason for consuming rice is that the
Scriptures have given the status of ¶anna·, that is, food, only to rice.

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6 Wake up before sunrise, have bath and complete the daily worship of favorite
deity.
6 Then prąy to lord Ganesha and make a wish (Sankalpam) to do Sankashtahara
Ganapathi vrata.
6 Fast for whole day and have sacred thoughts all day.
6 In the evening bath with the powder made from seeds of white sesame and
gooseberry (Tilamalaka churna).
6 Make an idol of lord Ganesha either with mud or turmeric powder. And prąy
him to come and stay in that idol (Avahanam).
6 Worship lord Ganapathi with Dhoopa, Deepa and flowers. Worshiping with
Durva is most important and mandatory.
6 One can worship lord Ganapathi with Durva twigs having three, five or seven
leaves. We can worship with 21 or more twigs and at least one.
6 Chant any Ganesha mantra (Ganesha Ashtothtramand Sankashta Nasahan
Ganesha Stotram) for at least 48 minutes.

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6 Offer Nivedya and Harathi to lord Ganesha.

6 Complete puja by the rise of moon.Compulsorily see the moon. prąy to the
moon and Chaturthi tithi and give Arghya to both.
6 After that, prąy to lord Ganapathi and say ´sankaTaam maam nivaarayaµ and
ask him to relieve from all troubles, give Arghya. Then offer Prasada to the
devotees and take yourself.
6 All through the night one should be awake with chanting and worshiping lord
Ganapathi.
6 Next day morning prąy to lord Ganesha and thank him for giving this
opportunity to worship and prąy to return back from the idol
(Udyapanam).Then do the Ganesh immersion in fresh flowing waters.


||Sankashta Nashana Ganesha Sthothram ||

Pranamya shirasa devam gouri puthram vinayakam |

Bhakthavasam smarenithyam aayuhkaamartha sidhaye || 1 ||

Prathamam vakrathundancha ekadantham dvitheeyakam |

Thritheeyam krishnapingaksham gajavakram chathurthakam || 2 ||

Lambodharam panchamanchancha shashtam vikatamevacha |

Sapthamam vignaraajancha dhoomravarnam thathashtamam || 3 ||

Navavam balachandrancha dashamanthu vinayakam|

Ekadhasham ganapathim dwadhashanthu gajananam|| 4 ||

Dwadashaithani namani trisandhyam yahpatenaraha |

Nachavignabhayam thasya sarvasidhi karam param|| 5 ||

Vidhyarthi labhathe vidhyam dhanarthi labhathe dhanam |

Puthrarthi labhathe puthran moksharthi mokshamapnayath || 6 ||

Japedh ganapatistotram shadbirmasai palamlabheth |

Samvathsarena sidhincha labhathe nathra samshayaha || 7 ||

Ashtabhyo brahmanebhyashcha likithva yeh samarpayeth |

Thasya vidhya bhaveth sarva ganeshasya prasadhathaha|| 8 ||

||Iti Shree Narada Purane Sankata Nashanam Ganesha Sthrothram Sampoornam ||


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From the Brahmanda Purana

Sri Yudhishthira Maharaj said, ³Oh Janardana, what is the name of the Ekadashi that
occurs during the dark fortnight (krishna paksha) of the month of Jyeshtha (May-June)? I
wish to hear from You the glories of this sacred day of Hari. Please narrate everything to
me´

Lord Sri Krishna said, ³Oh king, your inquiry is wonderful because the answer will benefit
the whole human society. This Ekadashi is so sublime and meritorious that even the
greatest sins can be erased by its purity. ³Oh great saintly king, the name of this unlimitedly
meritorious Ekadashi is Apara Ekadashi. Whoever fasts on this holy day becomes famous
all over the universe. Even such sins as killing a brahmana, a cow, or an embryo;
blasphemy; or having sex with another man¶s wife are completely eradicated by observing
Apara Ekadashi.

³Oh king people who bear false witness are most sinful. A person who falsely or
sarcastically glorifies another; one who cheats while weighing something on a scale; one
who fails to execute the duties of his varna or ashrama (an unqualified man¶s posing as a
brahmin, for example, or a person¶s reciting the Vedas wrongly); one who invents his own
scriptures; one who cheats others; one who is a charlatan astrologer, a cheating
accountant, or a false Ayurvedic doctor. all these are surely as bad as persons who bears
false witness, and they are all destined for hellish punishments. But simply by observing
Apara Ekadashi, all such sinners become completely free of their sinful reactions.

³Warriors who fall from their kshatriya-dharma and flee the battlefield go to a ferocious hell.
But, Oh Yudhishthira, even such a fallen kshatriya, if he observes fasting on the Apara
Ekadashi, is freed of that great sinful reaction and goes to heaven.
³That disciple is the greatest sinner who, after receiving a proper spiritual education from his
spiritual master, turns around and blasphemes him. Such a so-called disciple suffers
unlimitedly. But even he, rascal though he be, if he simply observes Apara Ekadashi, can
attain to the spiritual world. Listen, Oh king, as I describe to you further glories of this
amazing Ekadashi.

³The merit attained by one who performs all of the following acts of piety is equal to the
merit achieved by one who observes Apara Ekadashi: bathing three times daily in
Pushkara-kshetra during Kartika (October-November); bathing at Prayag in the month of
Magh (January-February) when the sun is in the zodiac of Capricorn; rendering service to
Lord Shiva at VarANasi (Benares) during Shiva-ratri; offering oblations to one¶s forefathers
at Gaya; bathing in the sacred Gautami River when Jupiter transits Leo
(Simha); having darshan of Lord Shiva at Kedarnath; seeing Lord Badrinath when the Sun
transits the sign of Aquarius (Kumbha); and bathing at the time of a solar eclipse at
Kurukshetra and giving cows, elephants, and gold there in charity. All the merit one gets
from performing these pious acts is gained by a person who observes the Apara Ekadashi

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fast. Also, the merit attained by one who donates a pregnant cow, along with gold and fertile
land, is attained by one who fasts on this day.
³In other words, Apara Ekadashi is an axe that cuts down the fully matured forest full of
trees of sinful deeds, it is a forest fire that burns sins as if they were kindling firewood, it is
the sun blazing before one¶s dark misdeeds, and it is a lion stalking the meek deer of
impiety.
³Therefore, Oh Yudhishthira, whoever truly fears his past and present sins must observe
Apara Ekadashi very strictly. One who does not observe this fast must be born again in the
material world, like one bubble among millions in a huge body of water, or like a small ant
among all other species.
³Therefore one must faithfully observe the sacred Apara Ekadashi and worship the
Supreme Personality of Godhead, Sri Trivikrama. One who does so is freed of all his sins
and promoted to the abode of Lord Vishnu.

³Oh Bharata, for the benefit of all humanity I have thus described to you this the importance
of the holy Apara Ekadashi. Anyone who hears or reads this description is certainly freed
from all kinds of sins, oh best of saintly kings, Yudhishthira.

Thus ends the narration of the glories of Jyeshtha-krishna Ekadashi, or Apara Ekadashi,
from the Brahmanda Purana.

NOTES:
1. Pushkara-kshetra, in western India, is the only place on Earth where a bonafide temple of
Lord Brahma is to be found.

2. The Vedas declare, narah budbuda samah: ³The human form of life is like a bubble in
water´. In water, many bubbles form and then suddenly burst a few seconds later. Thus if a
person does not utilize his rare human body to serve the Supreme Personality of Godhead,
Sri Krishna, his life has no more value or permanence than a bubble in water. Therefore, as
the Lord herein recommends, we should serve Him by fasting on Hari-vasara, or Ekadashi.

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From the Brahma Vaivarta Purana

The saintly king Yudhisthira said, ´O Supreme Lord, I have heard from You the glories
of fasting on Deva-sayani Ekadashi, which occurs during the light fortnight of the
month of AshADha. Now I would like to hear from You the glories of the Ekadashi that
occurs during the dark fortnight (krishna paksha) of the month of ShrAvaNa (July ²
August). O Govindadeva, please be merciful to me and explain its glories. O Supreme
VAsudeva, I offer my most humble obeisances unto You.µ

The Supreme Lord, Shri Krishna, replied, ´O King, please listen attentively as I
describe the auspicious influence of this Holy fast
(vrata) day, which removes all sins. Narada Muni once asked Lord BrahmA about this
same topic. ¶O regent of all beings,· said NAradji, ¶O you who sit upon a water born
lotus throne, please tell me the names of the Ekadashi that occurs during the dark
fortnight of the sacred month of ShrAvaNa. Please also tell me which Deity is to be
worshipped on that Holy day, the process one must follow to observe it, and the merit
it awards.·

´Lord BrahmA replied, ¶My dear son Narada, for the benefit of all humanity I shall
happily tell you everything you wish to know, for just hearing the glories of the
KAmikA Ekadashi bestows merit equal to that obtained by one who performs a horse
sacrifice. Certainly, great merit is attained by one who worships, and who also
meditates on the lotus feet of the four-armed Lord GadAdhara, who holds conchshell,
disc, club and lotus in His hands and who is also known as Shridhara, Hari, Vishnu,
Madhava, and MadhusUdana. And the blessings achieved by such a person / devotee,
who worships Lord Vishnu exclusively are far greater than those achieved by one who
takes a sacred bath in the Ganges at KAshi (VarANasii), in the forest of
NaimishAraNya, or at Pushkara, which is the only place on the planet where I am
formally worshipped. But one who observes this KAmikA Ekadashi and also worships
Lord Shri Krishna achieves greater merit than one who has darshana of Lord
KedAranAtha in the HimAlayas, or one who bathes at Kurukshetra during a solar
eclipse, or one who donates the whole Earth in charity, including its forests and
oceans, or one who bathes in the GaNDaki River (where the sacred Shaligrams are
found) or the GodAvari River on a full moon (purnima) day that falls on a Monday
when Leo (Simha) and Jupiter (Guru) are conjoined (conjunct).

´ ·Observing KAmikA Ekadashi bestows the same merit as donating a milk-cow and her
auspicious calf, along with their feed. On this all auspicious day, whosoever worships
Lord Sri Shridhara-deva, Vishnu, is glorified by all the devas, Gandharvas, Pannagas,
and NAgas.

´ ¶Those who are afraid of their past sins and completely immersed in sinful
materialistic life should at least observe this best of Ekadashis according to their

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ability and thus attain liberation. This Ekadashi is the purest of all days and the most
powerful for removing sins of the native. O Narada, Lord Shri Hari Himself once said
about this Ekadashi, ´One who fasts on KAmikA Ekadashi attains much more merit
than one who studies all the spiritual literatures.µ

´ ¶Anyone who fasts on this particular day remains awake throughout the night will
never experience the anger of YamarAja, the king of death personified. It has been
seen that whoever observes KAmikA Ekadashi will not have to suffer future births, and
in the past too, many Yogis of devotion who fasted on this day went to the spiritual
world. One should therefore follow in their auspicious footsteps and strictly observe a
fast on this most auspicious of Ekadashis.

´ ¶Whosoever worships Lord Shri Hari with Tulasi leaves is freed from all implication
of sin. Indeed, he lives untouched by sin, as the lotus leaf, although in the water, is
untouched by it. Whosoever offers Lord Shri Hari but a single leaf from the sacred
Tulasi tree (occillium basilcum sanctum) attains as much merit as one who gives away
in charity two hundred grams of gold and eight hundred grams of silver. The Supreme
Personality of Godhead is more pleased by one who offers Him a single Tulasi leaf
than by one who worships Him with pearls, rubies, topaz, diamonds, lapis lazuli,
sapphires, gomedA stones (gomaz), cat·s eye gems, and coral. One who offers Lord
Keshava newly grown maNjari buds from the Tulasi plant gets rid of all the sins he has
committed during this or any other lifetime. Indeed, mere darshana of Tulasi on
KAmikA Ekadashi removes all sins, and merely touching her and praying to her
removes all kinds of disease. One who waters Tulasi devi need never fear the Lord of
death, YamarAja. One who plants or transplants Tulasi on this days will eventually
reside with Lord Shri Krishna in His own abode. To Srimati Tulasi devi, who awards
liberation in devotional service, one should therefore daily offer one·s full
obeisances.

´ ¶Even Chitragupta, YamarAja·s secretary, cannot calculate the merit obtained by

one who offers Shrimati Tulasi-devi a perpetually burning ghee lamp. So dear is this
sacred Ekadashi to the Supreme Personality of Godhead that all the forefathers of one
who offers a bright ghee lamp to Lord Shri Krishna on this day ascend to the heavenly
planets and drink the celestial nectar there. Whoever offers a ghee or sesame oil
lamp to Shri Krishna on this day is freed from all his sins and enters the abode of
Surya, the Sun- god, with a body as bright as ten million lamps. This Ekadashi is so
powerful that if one who is unable to fast simply follows the practices as mentioned
herein, s/he is elevated to the heavenly planets, along with all their forefathers.

´ ¶O Maharaj Yudhisthira,µ Lord Shri Krishna concluded, ´These were the words of
prajapathi BrahmA to his son Narada Muni concerning the incalculable glories of this
KAmikA Ekadashi, which removes all sins. This sacred day nullifies even the sin of
killing a brAhmaNa or the sin of killing an unborn child in the womb, and it promotes
one to the spiritual world by making one supremely meritorious. One who kills the
innocent, i.e., a brahmin (brAhmaNa), a child in the womb, a pious and spotless
woman, etc., and then later hears about the glories of KAmikA Ekadashi will be

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relieved of the reaction to one·s sins. However, one should NOT think beforehand that
one can kill a Brahmin or other innocent folk and then go unpunished simply by
hearing of this Ekadashi. Such knowing commission of sin is an abomination.

Whosoever hears these glories of the KAmikA Ekadashi with faith becomes free of all
sins and returns home, back to Godhead ² Vishnu-loka, Vaikuntha.
Thus ends the narration of the glories of the ShrAvaNa-kRshNa Ekadashi, or KAmikA
Ekadashi, from the Brahma-Vaivarta PurANa.

  
       
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From the Bhavisyottara Purana

Pavitra Ekadashi, or Pavitropana Ekadasi, is observed during the waxing phase of the
moon in Shravan month (July ² August) as per traditional north Indian calendar. This
Ekadasi is known as Putrada Ekadasi in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and
Karnataka.
The legend or story and the importance of Putrada Ekadashi or Pavitropana
Ekadasi vrata is found in the Bhavisyottara Purana and its importance was narrated to
Yudhisthira by Lord Krishna. Jhulan Yatra , swing festival associated with Lord
Krishna, Radha and Lord Jagannath begins on this Ekadasi day and ends on Shravan
Purnima.
When King Yudhisthira asked about the Ekadasi Vrata which blesses the devotee with
a good and healthy son and everlasting fame for many generations, Lord Krishna
explained the story of King Mahijit who ruled Mahishmatipuri in the beginning of
Dwapara Yuga.
King Mahijit was a successful and victorious king but he felt bad because he had no
son. He performed many charities, good deeds and observed many homas, yagnas and
yagas (sacrifices) but he has not find any result.
One day he went to Sage Lomasa, who was born from the hair of Lord Brahma, and
explained his problem. Sage Lomasa went into meditation and told that the King
Mahijit committed a sin in his previous birth which made him childless in this birth.
King Mahijit was a vysya (merchant) in his previous birth.
When a cow and her newly born calf were about to drink water at a lake, he went
there and drove them away for drinking water himself. Though, by his other good
deeds he born as a King in his next birth, he became childless.
When Mahijit requested the Sage Lomasa for a remedy to pacify his mistake, he told
about the Putrada Ekadashi or Pavitra Ekadasi vrata. King Mahijit observed Putrada
Ekadashi vrata with great reverence and got a handsome and healthy son who ruled
the country successfully after him.



 

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From the Bhavisyottara Purana

Parsava Ekadashi, also known as Parivartini, Vamana and Jayanti Ekadashi, is observed
during the waxing phase of the moon in Bhadrapada month (August ² September).

This Ekadasi happens during the Dakshinayana Punyakalam (night time of Gods). There
is a popular belief that Lord Vishnu who takes rest during this period changes his
position of sleep ² turns from left side to right side. Therefore this Ekadashi is also
known as Parsva Parivartini Ekadashi.
Vamana Avatar of Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this Ekadashi day. It is believed that
the Vamana Avatar took place during this period and therefore, the Ekadasi is also
known as Vamana Ekadashi. King Mahabali was sent to the netherworld (pathalam) on
this day. It is believed that those who observe this Ekadashi will be absolved of their
sins.This Ekadashi also happens during the Chaturmas period.

The importance of this Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhisthira, the eldest of the
Pandavas, by Lord Krishna.
Yudhisthira Maharaja asked of Lord Sri Krishna, "What is the name of that Ekadashi
that occurs during the light fortnight (shukla paksha) of the month of Bhadrapada?
Who is the worshipable Deity for this Ekadashi, and what merit does one attain in
observing it? Kindly reveal all of this to me my Lord."

The Supreme Personality of Godhead Lord Sri Krishna addressed His devoted
Yudhisthira as follows, "This Ekadashi, O Yudhisthira, is called Vamana Ekadashi, and
it bestows upon those who observe it both great merit and ultimate liberation from
material bondage. Therefore, because it removes all one·s sinful reactions, it is also
called Jayanti Ekadashi. Just hearing of its glories frees one from all his past
misdeeds. So auspicious is this fast that observing it bestows the same merit as that
earned by performing a horse sacrifice. There is no better Ekadashi than this, because
it awards liberation so easily. Thus if one truly desires freedom from the punishing
material world, one should fast on Vamana Ekadashi.

"While observing this holy fast, a Vaishnava should lovingly worship the Supreme Lord
in His form as Vamanadev, the dwarf incarnation, whose eyes are like lotus petals. By
doing so, he worships all other Deities as well, including Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva,
and at death he undoubtedly goes to that abode of Sri Hari. In all the three worlds
there is no fast that is more important to observe. The reason this Ekadashi is so
auspicious is that it celebrates the day when the sleeping Lord Vishnu turns over on
His other side; thus it is also known as Parivartini Ekadashi."

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Maharaja Yudhisthira then asked of the Lord, "O Janardana, please clear up a question
I have. How is it that the Supreme Lord sleeps and then turns over on His side? O Lord,
when You are asleep what happens to all the other living entities? Please also tell me
how You bound the king of the demons, Bali Maharaja, as well as how one may please
the brahmanas. How does one observe Chaturmasya?. Kindly be merciful to me and
answer these questions."

The Supreme Personality of Godhead Lord Sri Krishna replied, "O Yudhisthira, lion
among Kings, I will gladly narrate to you an historical event that, simply by hearing,
eradicates all one·s sinful reactions. "In the Treta-yuga there once was a king of the
name Bali. Though born in a demonic dynasty, he was very devoted to Me. He sang
many Vedic hymns to Me and performed the homa rituals just to satisfy Me. He
respected the twice-born brahmanas and engaged them in performing sacrifices daily.
This great soul had a quarrel with Indra, however, and eventually defeated him in
battle. Bali took over his entire celestial kingdom, which I Myself had given to Indra.
Therefore Indra and all the other devas, along with many great sages, approached Me
and complained about Bali Maharaja. Bowing their heads to the ground and offering
many sacred prayers from the Vedas, they worshipped Me along with their spiritual
master, Brihaspati.

Thus I agreed to appear on their behalf as a dwarf Vamanadev, My fifth incarnation."

KingYudhisthira asked, "O Lord, how was it possible for You to conquer such a
powerful demon in a dwarf·s body? Please explain this clearly, for I am Your faithful
devotee." The Supreme Lord,Sri Krishna replied, "Though a dwarf, I was a brahmana,
and I approached that pious king Bali to ask him for alms in the form of land. I said,
´O Bali, please give Me just three steps of land in charity. Such a small piece of land
will be good as all the three worlds for Me? Bali agreed to grant My request without
lengthy consideration. But as soon as he vowed to give Me the land, My body began to
expand into a gigantic transcendental form. I covered the entire Earth with My feet,
all the Bhuvarloka with My thighs, the Svarga heavens with My waist, Maharloka with
My stomach, Janaloka with My chest, Tapoloka with My neck, and Satyaloka with My
head and face. I covered the entire material creation. Indeed, all the planets of the
universe, including the Sun and the Moon, were encompassed by My gigantic form."
"Seeing this astonishing pastime of Mine, all the devas, including Indra and Shesha,
the king of the snakes, began to sing Vedic hymns and offer prayers to Me. Then I took
Bali by the hand and said to him, ´O sinless one, I have covered the whole Earth with
one step and all the heavenly planets with the second. Now where shall I place My
foot to measure the third step of land you promised Me?µ

"Upon hearing this, Bali Maharaja bowed down in humility and offered Me his head to
place My third step. O Yudhisthira, I placed My foot on his head and sent him all the
way to Patalaloka. Seeing him thus humbled, I became very pleased and told Bali that
henceforth I would permanently reside in his palace. Thereafter, on Parivartini

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Ekadashi, which occurs during the light part of the month of Bhadra, Bali, the son of
Virocana, installed a Deity form of Me in his residence.

"O king, until Haribodhini Ekadashi, which occurs during the light part of the month of
Kartika, I continue to sleep in the ocean of milk. The merit one accumulates during
this period is particularly powerful. One should therefore observe Parivartini Ekadashi
carefully. Indeed, it is especially purifying and thus cleanses one of all sinful
reactions. On this day the faithful devotee should worship Lord Trivikrama,
Vamanadeva, who is the supreme father, because on this day I turn over to sleep on
My other side.

"If possible, on this day one should give a qualified person some yogurt mixed with
rice, as well as some silver, and then remain awake throughout the night. This simple
observance will free one of all material conditioning. One who observes this sacred
Parivartini Ekadashi in the way I have described will surely attain all kinds of
happiness in this world and the kingdom of God in the hereafter. One who simply
hears this narration with devotion will go to the abode of the devas and shine there
like the Moon itself, so powerful is observance of this Ekadashi. Indeed, this
observance is as powerful as the performance of a thousand horse sacrifices."

Thus ends the Vrjavasi narration of the glories of Parivartini Ekadashi, or Vamana
Ekadashi, which occurs during the light part of the month of Bhadrapada, from the
Brahma-vaivarta Purana.

The next day after Ekadashi is Sri Vamana Dvadashi: Appearance day of Lord
Vamanadev. Ekadashi fast is observed till noon. The fast is broken after noon
with Ekadashi prasadam. Next day (Sri Vamana Dvadashi), observe Lord
Vamanadev's appearance by again fasting till noon and by chanting extra
Mahamantra jap a praying to the Lord for His shelter. Break this fast with
joyful feasting of Lord Vamanadev's appearance day mahaprasadam!

Sometimes if you cannot fast due to circumstances then you can chant the names of
all the Ekadashi and read the above true story and you will receive the same
benefits.

Suta Goswami said: - There are twelve months in a year, and two Ekadashis in each
month. Thus there are twenty-four Ekadashis in one full year, and in a leap there are
two extra Ekadashis. O great sages, please listen attentively as I declare to you the
names of these auspicious Ekadashis.

Occurs in (Western month)

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Utpan-naa = November-December
Moksha-daa = November-December
Saphalaa = December-January
Putra-daa = December-January
Shat-tilaa = January-February
Jayaa = January-February
Vijayaa = February-March
Aamalakee = February-March
Paapamo-chanee = March-April
Kaamadaa = March-April
Varoothinee = April-May
Mohinee = April-May
Aparaa = May-June
Nirjalaa = May-June
Yoginee = June-July
Padmaa = June-July
Kaamikaa = July-August
Putradaa = July-August
Ajaa = August-September
Parivartinee = August-September
Indiraa = September-October
Paapaankushaa = September-October
Ramaa = October-November
Haribodhinee = October-November
The two extra Ekadashis, which occur during leap year, are called,
Padminee
Paramaa

"O sages, one who hears about these Ekadashis will learn how to observe them
properly. Each Ekadashi bestows particular benefits on the faithful observer.
One who is physically unable to fast on Ekadashi may read the glories of each
Ekadashi when it occurs and recite all the names of the Ekadashis; thus he will
achieve the same goal as the person who observes the full Ekadashi vow."

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The legend or Vrat Katha and the significance of Rama Ekadasi are mentioned in the
Brahmavaivarta Purana as a conversation between Lord Krishna and Yudhistira. Lord
Krishna detailed the story of a prince who attained salvation in his next life by
observing Rama Ekadasi vrata.Rama Ekadasi vrat makes devotees free from their all
sins that they have committed in their past life and provides salvation in present life.

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Yudhisthira Maharaj said, ´O Janardana, O protector of all beings, what is the name
of the Ekadasi that comes during the dark fortnight (Krishna paksha) of the month
ofKarttika (October - November)? Please impart this sacred knowledge to me.µ

The Supreme Lord, Sri Krishna then spoke as follows, ´O lion among kings, please
listen as I narrate to you; The Ekadasi that occurs during the dark part of the month
of Karttika is called Ramaa Ekadasi. It is most auspicious, for it at once eradicates the
greatest sins and awards one the passage to the spiritual abode. I shall now narrate to
you its history and glories.µ
´There once lived a famous king of the name Muchakunda, who was friendly to
Lord Indra, the king of the heavenly planets, as well as with Yamaraj, Varuna, and
Vibhishana, the pious brother of the demon Ravana. Muchakunda always spoke the
truth and constantly rendered devotional service to Me. Because he ruled according to
religious principles, there were no disturbances in his kingdom.
´Muchakunda·s daughter was named Chandrabhaagaa, after a sacred river, and
the king gave her in marriage to Shobhana, the son of Chandrasena. One day,
Shobhana visited his father-in-law·s palace on the auspicious Ekadasi day. This visit
made Shobhana·s wife Chandrabhaagaa quite anxious, for she knew that her husband
was physically very weak and unable to bear the austerity of a day-long fast. She said
to him, ¶My father is very strict about following Ekadasi. On Dasami, the day before
Ekadasi, he strikes a large kettledrum and announces, ´Nobody should eat on Ekadasi,
the sacred day of Sri Hari !µ ´
´When Shobhana heard the sound of the kettledrum, he said to his wife, ¶O
beautiful one, what am I to do now? Please tell me how I can save my life and obey
your father·s strictness and at the same time satisfy our guests !µ
´Chandrabhaagaa then spoke, ¶My dear husband, in my father·s house nobody ² not
even the elephants or horses, what to speak of consenting human beings ² eats on
Ekadasi. Indeed, none of the animals are given their ration of grains, leaves, or straw
² or even water ! ² on Ekadasi, the sacred day of Sri Hari. So how can you escape
fasting? My beloved husband, if you must eat something, then you should leave here
at once. Now, with firm conviction decide on what you have to do.·
´Prince Shobhana then said, ¶I have decided to fast on the sacred Ekadasi day.
Whatever my fate is, it will surely come to pass.·
´Deciding thus, Shobhana attempted to fast on this Ekadasi, but he became
unbearably disturbed with excessive hunger and thirst. Eventually the sun set in the
west, and the arrival of the auspicious night made all the Vaishnavas very happy. O
Yudhisthira, all the devotees enjoyed worshipping Me (Sri Hari) and remaining awake
all through night, but Prince Shobhana that night became absolutely unbearable.
Indeed, when the Sun rose on the Dwadasi, that Prince Shobhana was dead.
´King Muchakunda observed his son-in-law·s funeral, ordering a large stack of wood
be assembled for the fire, but he instructed his daughter Chandrabhaagaa not to join
her husband on the funeral pyre. Thus Chandrabhaagaa, after performing all the
purificatory processes and procedures for honouring her deceased husband, continued
to live in her father·s house.
Lord Sri Krishna continued, ´O best of the kings, Yudhisthira, even though
Shobhana died because of observing Ramaa Ekadasi, the merit that he accrued
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enabled him, after his death, to become the ruler of a kingdom high on the peak of
Mandarachala Mountain. This kingdom was like a city of the demigods; very lustrous,
with unlimited jewels set in the walls of its buildings that gave off light. The pillars
were made of rubies, and gold inlaid with diamonds shone everywhere. As King
Shobhana sat upon a throne beneath a pure white canopy, servants fanned him with
yak-tail whisks. A stunning crown rested upon his head, beautiful earrings adorned his
ears, a necklace graced his throat, and bejewelled armlets and bracelets encircled his
arms. He was served by Gandharvas (the best of heavenly singers) and Apsaras
(celestial dancers). Verily, he resembled a second Indra.
´One day, a brahmin named Somasharma, who lived in Muchakunda·s kingdom,
happened upon Shobhana·s kingdom while travelling to various places of pilgrimage.
The brahmin saw Shobhana in all his resplendent glory and thought he might be the
son-in-law of his own king Muchakunda. When Shobhana saw the brahmin
approaching, he immediately rose up from his seat and welcomed him. After
Shobhana had paid his respectful obeisances he asked the brahmin about his well-
being and about the health and welfare of his (Shobhana·s) father-in-law, his wife and
all the residents of the city.
´Somasharma then said, ¶O king, all the residents and subjects are well in your
father-in-law·s kingdom, and Chandrabhaagaa and your other family members are also
quite well. Peace and prosperity reign throughout the kingdom. But there is one
thing, I·m quite astonished to find you here! Please tell me about yourself. Nobody
has ever seen such a beautiful city as this! Kindly tell me how you obtained it.·
´King Shobhana then began to tell his story, ¶Because I observed the Ramaa
Ekadasi, I was given this splendid city to rule over. But for all of its grandeur, it is
only temporary. I beg you to do something to correct this deficiency. You see, this is
only an ephemeral city, a place of this material world. How may I make its beauties
and glories permanent? Kindly reveal this to me by your instructions.
´The brahmin then asked, ¶Why is this kingdom unstable and how will it become
stable? Please fully explain this to me, and I shall try to help you.·
´Shobhana then answered, ¶Because I fasted on the Ramaa Ekadasi without any
faith, this kingdom is impermanent. Now hear how it can become permanent. Please
return to Chandrabhaagaa, the beautiful daughter of king Muchukunda, and tell her
what you have seen and understood about this place and about me. Surely, if you, a
pure hearted brahmin, tell her this, my city will soon become permanent.·
´Thus the brahmin returned to his city and related the entire episode to
Chandrabhaagaa, who was both surprised and overjoyed to hear this news of her
husband. She said, ¶O brahmana, is this a dream you have seen, or is it actually a
factual thing?·
´Somasharma the brahmin replied, ¶O Princess, I have seen your late husband face
to face in that wonderful kingdom, which resembles a realm of the denizens· of
heavens playgrounds. But your former husband has asked me to relate to you that he
says that his kingdom is unstable and could vanish into thin air at any moment.
Therefore he hope you can find a way to make it permanent.·
´Chandrabhaagaa then said, ¶O sage among the brahmins, please take me to that
place where my husband resides at once, for I greatly desire to see him again! Surely I
shall make his kingdom permanent with the merit that I have acquired by fasting on

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every Ekadasi throughout my life. Please reunite us at once, again. It is said that one
who reunites separated persons also obtains very great merit.·
´The humble brahmin Somasharma then led Chandrabhaagaa to Shobhana·s
effulgent kingdom. Before reaching it, however, they stopped at the foot of Mt.
Mandaracala, at the sacred ashrama of Vamadeva. Upon hearing their story,
Vamadeva chanted hymns from the Vedas and sprinkled holy water from his samanya
arghya upon Chandrabhaagaa. By the influence of that great Rishi·s rites, the merit
she had accrued by fasting for so many Ekadasis made her body transcendental.
Ecstatic, her eyes beaming in wonder, Chandrabhaagaa continued on her journey.
´When Shobhana saw his wife approaching him high on Mount Mandarachala, he
was overwhelmed with joy and called out to her in great happiness and jubilation.
After she arrived , he seated her on his left side and she said to him, ¶O dearest
Patiguru, please listen as I tell you something that will benefit you greatly. Since I
was eight years old I have fasted regularly and with full faith on every Ekadasi. If I
transfer to you all the merit I have accumulated, your kingdom will surely become
permanent, and its prosperity will grow and grow until the coming of the great
inundation !· ´
Lord Sri Krishna then continued to address Yudhisthira as follows, ´O Yudhisthira,
in this way Chandrabhaagaa who was beautifully decorated with the finest ornaments
and had an exquisitely transcendental body, at last enjoyed peace and happiness with
her husband. By the potency of Ramaa Ekadasi, Shobhana found his kingdom on the
peaks of Mt. Mandarachala able to fulfill all his desires and bestow upon him
everlasting happiness, like that achieved from the transcendental Kaama-dhenu milch
cow.
´O greatest of kings, I have thus narrated to you the glories of Ramaa Ekadasi that
falls in the dark fortnight of the month of Karttika.

´Anyone who observes sacred Ekadasi during both the light and the dark fortnight of
each month is undoubtedly freed from the reactions to the sin of killing a brahmin.
One should not differentiate between the Ekadasis of the light and dark parts of the
month. As we have seen, both can award pleasure in this world and liberate even the
most sinful and fallen souls. Just as black cows and white cows give equally good
quality milk. So the Ekadasis of the dark fortnight (Krishna paksha) and the light
fortnight (shukla or Gaura paksha) award the same high degree of merit and
eventually liberate one from the repeated cycle of birth and death. Anyone who
simply hears this narration of the glories of the sacred day of Ramaa Ekadasi, is freed
from all kinds of sin and attains the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu.µ

Thus ends the narration for the glories of the sacred Karttika-krsna Ekadasi, or Ramaa
Ekadasi, from the Brahma-Vaivarta Purana of Srila Krishna Dwaipayana Veda Vyaasa.

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Sattila Ekadashi is observed during the waning phase of moon usually in the month of
January ² Magh in North India and Paush in other regions. The importance of Sattila
Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyotara
Purana.

The name of the Ekadashi is Sat-Tila as it is believed that donating Til (Sesame) seeds
on this day will help in redeeming sins. It is also considered highly auspicious to take
bath in water mixed with til (sesame seeds) and offer oblations to dead ancestors
with water mixed with sesame seeds.It must be noted that Sat-tila Ekadasi takes
place in North Indiaduring winter season and Sesame seeds is considered to be highly
beneficial during the period.

There is an interesting story that explains the importance of Sattila Ekadashi Vrat.
The Katha is listened to by people observing the Ekadasi fasting.

Once their lived a rich woman who was very pious and she used to observe Ekadasi
fasting without fail. She used to feed the Brahmins and donated cows etc. But out of
ignorance she used to not feed other hungry people.

Once Lord Krishna came in the guise of a poor mendicant with torn clothes on Sattila
Ekadashi day and asked for some food. The rich woman was not ready to give food
until the mendicant mentioned his gothra and the place he came from. The
mendicant did not listen to her and continued to ask for food. The rich woman got
angry and put some clay in the begging pot of the mendicant.The mendicant left
without complaining. The woman then returned home to eat her food and to horror
found that all that she had cooked had turned into clay. All the rice, fruits and
vegetables in her home became clay.All the food items that were brought into her
home became clay.

The rich woman became hungry and pale and grew weak day by day. She had all the
wealth in the world but the wealth could not get her food.
She then prayed to Lord Krishna for days and one day God Krishna appeared in her
dream. He said that the greatest dhanam is Anna Danam or feeding one who is
hungry. Hunger knows know caste or creed or rich or poor. You will escape from this
situation of yours when you perform Sattila Ekadashi.

The woman then performed the Sattaila Ekadasi ² she donated til seeds to all that
came to her home. She fed the poor and hungry. Soon all the clay food items in her
home became real food items.The woman then always kept the door of her courtyard
open for those who are hungry. She fed them at anytime of the day.
Later she attained moksha and escaped from the cycle of birth and death.

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{
 ^
  

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"#
This consists of reading Chapter 1 to 38 on the first day and the rest the next day.
This should be repeated 32 times in 64 days

Î 
#$
This consists of reading Chapter 1-15 on the first day., 16-41 the next day and the rest
of the chapters on the third day. This should be repeated 24 times in 72 days.

Î 
%#
This consists of reading Chapter 1-15 on the first day., 16-32 on the second day., 33-
51 on the third day and the rest of the chapters on the fourth day. This should be
repeated 12 times in 48 days.

Î 
&
Read 7 chapters a day and complete reading on the fourteenth day and repeat it 7
times and complete the parayana in 68 days.

Î 
$
Read ten chapters per day for the first 27 days and read the remaining 2 chapters on
the 28th day,

Î 
 
Read eight chapters per day and complete reading twice on the seventeenth day.
In all these cases on the last day, the last chapter of Yudha Kandam (131st chapter)
should be read. On each day before and after the parayana boiled milk with Sugar
should be offered as offering (Naivedya) to the God. On the day of completion it is
desirable to give a feast to the Brahmins.

It is essential to offer Naivedya to God before and after the Parayana. It would be
great if at the end of the Parayana, Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lord Hanuman are
worshipped using Sahasra Nama (1000 names). If someone is not capable of doing it,
he can worship using 108 names of the God. As Naivedya boiled milk added with Sugar
is supposed to be best offering to Lord Rama and Lotus and Thulasi (Ocimum) flowers
are the best to worship the Lord. If not available any flower can be used. However
Karavira(Arali) should never be used. Offering to God Pomegranate would bring in
immense benefits. It would be better to the devotee to Chant Rama Gayathri during
the beginning, Avahana and end of the worship. This is given by

Dasarathaya Vidhmahe, Sita vallabhata Dheemahi, Thanno Rama Prachodayath.

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After pooja, meditation is done using Gayathri Mantra or the Shadakshari mantra of
Rama viz ´Om Ram Ramaya Nama.µ. Though it is desirable to represent Rama either
by Dasavarana Yanthra or statue, it would be sufficient if worship is done to the
Ramayana Book. Rama with Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman always is present wherever
Ramayana book is there. It is also essential that whosoever does the Parayana for
getting specific objectives should observe Brahmacharya during the parayana period.

c   

 
Suppose someone is not able to follow any of the above desirable rules, he can read it
any way according to his capacity. Several such methods are given below:

6 Read the entire Sundara Kanda once in a full day.

6 Read Chapter 1-35 on the first day and the rest of the chapters next day.
6 Read Chapter 1-37 on the first day. 37-40 on the second day and the rest on the
third day.
6 Read chapter 1-15 on the first day. 16-37 on the second day, 38th chapter on the
third day, 39-54 on the fourth day and the rest on the fifth day.
6 Start on a Friday, daily read 9 chapters and complete reading on the next Friday.
6 Read within 9 days stopping each day on 5th, 15th, 20th, 26th, 28th, 40th, 52nd,
80th and 68th chapters.
6 Daily read 6 chapters and complete it on the 12th day.
6 Till 22 days read two chapters a day, 5 chapters on the 23rd day, 3 chapters on
the 24th day, 6 chapters on the 25th day, 3 chapters on the 26th day, 4 chapters
on the 27th day and the rest 3 chapters on the 28th day.
If someone is not able to follow any of the methods suggested above he can read it as
per his capacity without following any rules.

3


  
 
3  

Some of the specific problems, which could be solved by doing Parayana of certain
chapters, are given below:

6 Salvation can be achieved by reading the first chapter daily for six months.
6 Effect of attack of devils, ghosts, and spirits can be warded off by reading 3rd
chapter.

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6 To get rid of dullness of brain, read 13th chapter

6 To get rid of the sin of having affair with someone else·s wife, read chapters 7-
11.
6 To get permanent wealth and happiness read chapter 15.
6 To get rid of bad dreams read Chapter 27.
6 To get good behavior read chapter 20-21.
6 To rejoin with lost relatives read chapters 33-40.
6 To get rid of impending danger read chapter 36.
6 To get pardon from god for insult done to him, knowingly and unknowingly read
chapter 38.
6 Read chapters 42-47 to win over enemies
6 To become just and charitable read chapter 51
6 For improvement of assets like house, land etc read chapter 54.
6 To get peace and happiness read Chapter 61
6 To get perennial happiness and to attain God read chapter 67.
6 To get what one wishes read chapter 41
6 To realize God and to become one capable of sweet words read chapter 19.


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The Sundara Kanda Mahatmya was convayed to Parvati by Shiva.

   

Oh, God of all beings, I would very much love to know from you, the greatness of
Sundara Kanda in detail.

{    

I would summarize the greatness of Sundara Kanda for you, because to tell in detail,
only the great Lord Ramachandra is capable. Similar to the fact that God Rama is the
greatest among Devas, similar to the fact that Kalpaga tree is greatest among trees,
similar to the fact that the Kousthubha gem is greatest among gems, in Ramayana,
Sundara Kanda is the greatest chapter. By reading or listening to Sundara Kanda with
devotion, all the wishes are fulfilled, all dangers will vanish, all diseases will be cured
and all types of wealth will grow. Especially it is the greatest panacea for those who
suffer from great diseases. Even diseases like tuberculosis, Leprosy and epilepsy,

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which cannot be cured by even divine medicines, would be cured completely by

reading Sundara Kanda 68 times by the grace of Lord Ramachandra. Please hear its
greatness, which I am telling you with attention.

Please hear, the following ancient story, which tells about the greatness of Sundara
Kanda.

There was a great city called Kanchipuram in the earth and once upon a time it was
ruled by Chola dynasty. Among those kings, there was a great king called Vamsankara
who lived with his wife Manorama, He gave very many charities and performed fire
sacrifices. He was devoted to the great temple of the city, which included the great
Temple of Kamakshy and Ekamranatha and the temple of Varadaraja and ruled the
state with efficiency. Unfortunately he was not blessed by any children.

Once coming out of the temple of Kamakshy he saw a great sage entering the temple.
He worshipped the sage and when enquired, introduced himself. The sage asked him,
in what way he would be able to help him and the king requested him to bless him to
become a father. The sage told the king, that ´In your previous birth you were a
saintly Brahmin who lived in Rameswaram and worshipped in the temple daily.As a
result you are born as the king of this country, Unfortunately in your previous birth,
you did not allow your daughter to join her husband and become a mother due to
some family conflict. This is the reason why you are not able to become a father.µ He
then requested the king and the queen to observe strict penance, give gold and silver
as charities to Brahmins, and worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva daily. The king and
the queen followed his advice and as a result a good son was born to them. They
named him Balachandra and the prince grew up as an extremely learned and able
man.

When he became old, the king decided to give his kingdom to his son and make him
his successor and retire to the forest. Unfortunately the terrible disease of
Tuberculosis afflicted Balachandra. In spite of treatment by the foremost expert
doctors of the world and daily prayers the prince was not cured. When the king and
queen were terribly worried and knew not what to do, the sage who had earlier
blessed them with the child came again to that city. The king and the Queen fell at
his feet and requested him to cure the disease of the prince. The sage told, ´ In his
previous birth, your son stole the materials kept ready for the worship of Rama and
enjoyed life and that is why he is cursed with this disease. But later realizing his sin,
he daily readRamayana and worshipped Rama and that is why he has been born to

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you. I would tell you, how to get rid of the effects of that sin. µ The king thanked him
and wanted to know in detail as to what should be done. The sage replied, ´
Construct a decorated Yaga sala and in its middle construct a square platform. Spread
a white silk cloth in that stage. On that cloth, spread six measures of Paddy and on
that half the quantity of raw rice. On that keep a golden vessel made of one pound of
silver full of pearls. Cover that vessel with a silk cloth. On that keep a gold plate in
which the Sri Rama Yantra is drawn. Over that keep the golden statue of Sri Rama
accompanied by Sita and Hanuman. Worship this statue using Rama Sahasranamavali.
Then read the entire Sundara Kanda. This worship and reading should start in the
early morning and end at noon. A non fading ghee lamp also should be kept burning
for 68 days and the above procedure should be repeated 68 times. On each day,
Payasam should be prepared and offered to God Rama. Though this is the best,
completing the repetition 68 times can also be done in four months. It is best for the
individual himself to read the Sundara Kanda, and it is of medium effect if it is got
read by single Brahmin, and worse if it is got read by many Brahmins. After
completing the above, The Yudha Kanda should be completely read either by 5 or 6
days. All the 73 days, in the evening a great scholar should retell the stories of
Sundara Kanda. This would cure even diseases which Aswini Devas (Doctors of Gods)
cannot cure. This also could help you win a war or even help you in getting occult
powers, if your son does this, his disease would definitely get cured.µ That sage then
disappeared. The king performed the above worship and the prince himself read the
Sundara Kanda daily and was fully cured of the disease. Hey Devi, just by reading
Sundara Kanda 68 times the prince was cured of a terrible disease. There are also
many others who got rid of their illness by reading Sundara Kanda. So even if one is
poor or not physically able, he should observe the Vritha of Sundara Kanda and get
benefited.

Lord Shiva after telling all this to Goddess Parvathy told her that whoever reads are
listens to this book on the Sundara Kanda Phala prapthi, would become a great
devotee of Lord Rama and would lead a happy, painless life.

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