Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi is observed during the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the month of Bhadrapad. Observing this Ekadashi washes away sins committed by ancestors and helps them attain moksha. Since it falls during the Pitru Paksha Shradh period, it is also known as Ekadashi Shradh. The glories of this sacred day are described in the Brahmavaivarta Purana by Lord Krishna to Yudhishthira.
Yudhishthira asked, “O Madhusudana, what is the name of the Ekadashi that occurs during the dark fortnight of Ashwin? Please describe its greatness.”
Shree Krishna replied, “This holy fast is known as Indira Ekadashi. One who observes it destroys all sins and liberates ancestors suffering in lower realms. Even listening to the glories of this Ekadashi yields the merit of performing a horse sacrifice.”
In Satya-Yuga lived a righteous king named Indrasena, ruler of Mahismati Puri. He was wealthy, just, and always engaged in chanting the names of Lord Govinda. One day, Narada Muni visited his court and praised the king’s devotion.
Narada then revealed a message sent by the king’s father from Yamaloka. Though religious, his father had once broken an Ekadashi fast prematurely, causing him to fall under Yamaraja’s authority. His father begged Indrasena to observe Indira Ekadashi so he may be liberated and reach heaven.
King Indrasena humbly asked Narada to explain the proper method of observing Indira Ekadashi.
Narada Muni explained: “This Ekadashi occurs during Ashwin Krishna Paksha. On Dashami, rise early, bathe, and offer Shradh rituals for ancestors. Eat only once on Dashami and sleep on the floor. On Ekadashi morning, cleanse yourself and take a vow of complete fasting with devotion to the Supreme Lord.
Worship Shaligram Shila with incense and flowers, offer food to ancestors, feed brahmanas, and offer charity. Stay awake throughout the night singing the glories of Lord Narayan.”
“On Dwadashi, bathe early, worship Sri Hari with full devotion, feed brahmanas, feed relatives, and finally take your own meal in silence. Observing this Ekadashi with discipline frees one’s ancestors and elevates them to Vaikuntha.”
King Indrasena faithfully observed the fast with devotion. As he broke his fast on Dwadashi, celestial flowers rained upon him. His father appeared in a spiritual body atop Garuda, ascending to the abode of Lord Hari. Indrasena ruled his kingdom peacefully thereafter and eventually also attained Vaikuntha.