Ekadashi 19 of 24
Aja Ekadashi
अजा एकादशी
Paksha
Krishna
Masa
Bhadrapada
Window
August-September
Deity
Vishnu
Origin & story
Padma Purana.
King Harishchandra — famous for never speaking untruth — was tested through losing his kingdom, wife, and son. He observed Aja Ekadashi under sage Gautama's advice. All was restored — kingdom, family, dignity. "Aja" = "unborn" / "primordial".
Worship mantra
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
Fasting rule
Phalahara fast; truth-telling vow recommended.
Foods permitted
- ✓ Milk
- ✓ Fruits
Foods forbidden
- ✗ Grains
- ✗ Lentils
- ✗ Onion / garlic
Benefits
- ◈Restoration of lost dignity, family, position
- ◈Strengthens commitment to satya (truth)
- ◈Removal of accumulated maha-papa
Who should observe
Special note
The Harishchandra story is widely told — invoke for "rock bottom recovery" situations.
Want Aja Ekadashi vrata guided by a qualified pandit?
Pandit-guided Vishnu puja, parana (fast-breaking) muhurat, and personalized sankalp ensure your vrata bears full merit.