Apara Ekadashi, also known as Achala Ekadashi, is one of the 24 sacred Ekadashis observed in the Hindu lunar calendar. Falling in the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) of the Jyeshtha month, this Ekadashi is especially revered for its power to cleanse past sins and open the doors to liberation (moksha). The word “Apara” means “limitless” — signifying the immeasurable spiritual merit one can gain by observing this holy day.

Apara Ekadashi 2025 Date and Parana Timing

• Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
• Ekadashi Tithi Begins: 01:12 AM on May 23, 2025
• Ekadashi Tithi Ends: 10:29 PM on May 23, 2025
• Parana (breaking the fast): May 24, 2025 (Saturday) – From 5:25 AM to 8:10 AM

Spiritual Significance of Apara Ekadashi

Apara Ekadashi is often called the "Ekadashi of forgiveness." It is believed that by observing a strict fast and offering prayers to Lord Vishnu, one can free themselves from the burden of past karmas, including grave sins and misdeeds.

According to the Brahmanda Purana, observing Apara Ekadashi with devotion grants merit equal to performing:

• A thousand years of penance
• Sacred charity (daan) such as giving gold or cows
• Pilgrimages to holy places like Kashi, Pushkar, and Kedarnath
• Ritual baths in the Ganga or Prayagraj during auspicious times

The main deity of this Ekadashi is Lord Vishnu in his Trivikrama form — the one who measured the universe in three steps.

Who Should Observe Apara Ekadashi?

This Ekadashi is especially recommended for:

• Those seeking redemption from past mistakes
• Professionals facing career stagnation or business losses
• Spiritual seekers wishing to deepen their inner practice
• Kshatriyas and leaders, as per tradition, to cleanse the karma of violence or harsh decisions
• Students and young aspirants, for clarity and wisdom

It is also considered highly auspicious for those wanting to improve their ancestral karma or who are performing rituals for departed souls.

Rituals to Follow on Apara Ekadashi

1. Fasting (Upvaas)

Devotees observe nirjala (waterless) or phalahar (fruit-only) fasts based on their capacity. The fast begins at sunrise on Ekadashi and continues until the next morning. No grains, pulses, or beans are consumed. Even those not fasting should avoid tamasic foods (onion, garlic, meat).

2. Morning Rituals

Wake up early during Brahma Muhurat. Take a holy bath and wear clean, preferably white or yellow clothes. Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu, reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

3. Puja Vidhi

Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, ghee lamp, incense, fruits, and sweets to Lord Vishnu. A small bhog of sattvic food is prepared for the deity (but not consumed by the devotee if fasting).

4. Charity and Daan

Donating clothes, food, water pots, and spiritual books is considered highly meritorious. Donations to Brahmins, temples, or the poor bring multiplied results on this day.

5. Night Vigil (Jagran)

Reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, or singing bhajans is ideal. Devotees often stay awake or spend the evening in satsang or quiet prayer.

6. Parana (Breaking the Fast)

The fast is broken the next day during Dwadashi tithi, after sunrise and before the tithi ends. It should be done after offering prayers to Lord Vishnu again.

In a world of constant doing, this Ekadashi offers a divine pause — an invitation to purify the mind and lighten the soul. As the name suggests, the "apara" (limitless) fruits of this day lie not just in rituals, but in inner honesty, heartfelt prayer, and surrender. Whether you are seeking liberation from a restless mind, healing from past errors, or just a deeper connection with the Divine, Apara Ekadashi is a powerful doorway. And like all spiritual practices, faith is the key.