Papankusha Ekadashi
Fasting day dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Falling in Ashwin Shukla Paksha, it is powerful enough to uproot (ankusha) even the deepest sins (papa). Devotees worship Vishnu as Padmanabha.
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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