Mokshada Ekadashi (Gita Jayanti)
Fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Observed in Margashirsha Shukla Paksha, this is the day Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. It is said to grant moksha (liberation).
Why We Celebrate
Mokshada Ekadashi is supremely sacred because it is the day Lord Krishna spoke the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, approximately 5,000 years ago. The Gita's 700 verses contain the essence of Vedantic philosophy — karma yoga, bhakti yoga, and jnana yoga. Observing this Ekadashi with Gita recitation is said to grant moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). It is also called Gita Jayanti.
How It's Celebrated
Wake before sunrise and take a bath
Observe a complete fast — avoid grains, rice, beans, and lentils
If unable to fast completely, eat only fruits, milk, nuts, and sabudana (tapioca)
Worship Lord Vishnu with tulsi leaves, flowers, and incense
Read or listen to the Vishnu Sahasranama or Bhagavad Gita
Spend the day in prayer, meditation, and satsang
Break the fast the next morning (Dwadashi) after sunrise at the prescribed time
What You Need
- Tulsi leaves
- Vishnu idol or photo
- Fresh fruits and milk
- Flowers (lotus or any fragrant variety)
- Incense, camphor, and oil lamp
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