Shattila Ekadashi: When to observe fast?

Ekadashi has great importance in Hindu religion. Ekadashi date is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that whosoever observe this fast attains salvation after death. According to the Hindu Panchang, Ekadashi Tithi falls twice a month, one in Krishna Paksha and other one in Shukla Paksha.

Ekadashi that falls in Krishna Paksha of Magh Maas is called Shattila Ekadashi. Offering sesame seeds on this day gives auspicious results. You should also use sesame seeds in your Prasad. Rice should be abandoned on this day. One should observe fast on the day of Shattila Ekadashi and perform Harinam Sankirtan at home. According to Udaya Tithi, the Ekadashi fast will be observed on February 6.

Date and time 

Ekadashi Tithi Start - February 05, 2024 at 05:24 PM
Ekadashi Tithi Ends - February 06, 2024 at 04:07 PM
Parana (breaking of fast) time - 7th February, 07:04 AM to 09:19 AM
Dwadashi Tithi ends on Paran Tithi - 02:02 PM

Importance of sesame on Shattila Ekadashi

According to mythology, by observing a fast on Shattila Ekadashi, one gets more results than the virtues one gets after marrying a girl, thousands of years of penance and donating gold. Sesame seeds are used in puja, havan, prasad, bath, ablution, charity, food and tarpan. Due to the tradition of donating sesame seeds, it is called Shattila Ekadashi.

Ekadashi puja method

• Though everyone follows their own rituals, but there are some common practices that are followed on this day:
• Get up early in the morning and take bath.
• Light a lamp in the home temple.
• Anoint Lord Vishnu with Ganga water.
• Offer flowers and basil leaves to Lord Vishnu.
• If possible, keep a fast on this day.
• Perform Aarti of God.
• Offer food to God. Keep in mind that only virtuous things are offered to God. Be sure to include Tulsi in the offerings to Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Lord Vishnu does not accept food without Tulsi.
• On this auspicious day, along with Lord Vishnu, worship Goddess Lakshmi also.
• Meditate and chant mantras as much as possible on this day.

According to mythology, donating black sesame and black cow on Shattila Ekadashi gives the results of thousands of years of penance. Using sesame seeds on Shattila Ekadashi removes obstacles in life and the position of the planets remains favorable.
Here are some of the remedies for happiness and prosperity on Shattila Ekadashi

Formation of auspicious yoga

Shattila Ekadashi will be celebrated on February 6. On this day, Vyaghat Yoga was being formed till 8:50 am in the morning. After Vyaghat Yoga, Harshan Yoga will be formed which will last till 6.09 pm on February 7. After this, Jyestha Nakshatra will remain till 7.35 pm.