📰 Mohini Ekadashi on April 27: The Path to the Eradication of Sins and Attainment of Salvation — Sanjay Sarraf
The auspicious Mohini Ekadashi, falling during the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) of the month of *Vaishakh*, will be observed this year on April 27. Sanjay Sarraf—Provincial Spokesperson for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's Seva Vibhag (Service Wing) and the Shri Krishna Pranami Seva Dham Trust—stated that the *Ekadashi* lunar day holds immense religious significance in Hinduism, and among all *Ekadashis*, Mohini Ekadashi is considered to be exceptionally meritorious.
He explained that this fast (*Vrat*) is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Observing this fast with deep faith and strict adherence to the prescribed rituals leads to the eradication of all of an individual's sins, as well as the attainment of happiness, prosperity, and salvation (*Moksha*).
According to mythological beliefs, during the *Samudra Manthan* (Churning of the Ocean), when a dispute arose between the *Devas* (gods) and the *Asuras* (demons) over the *Amrit* (elixir of immortality), Lord Vishnu assumed the form of Mohini to enchant the demons and ensure that the gods were able to partake of the elixir. It is in commemoration of this very event that this *Ekadashi* came to be known as Mohini Ekadashi.
Sanjay Sarraf remarked that this fast serves to eliminate the internal attachments (*Moh*), greed, and negative tendencies within a human being, thereby guiding them toward the path of righteousness (*Dharma*), self-restraint, and devotion. According to religious scriptures, observing this fast leads to the destruction of sins accumulated over many lifetimes, while also bestowing mental peace, domestic harmony, and financial advancement.
He further noted that observing a fast on this day—accompanied by the worship of Lord Vishnu, listening to religious narratives (*Katha*), singing devotional hymns (*Bhajan-Kirtan*), and performing acts of charity—is considered to be particularly fruitful. This fast infuses an individual's life with positive energy and renewed hope.
According to an ancient legend, Dhrishtabuddhi—the son of King Dyutiman, ruler of the city of Bhadravati situated on the banks of the River Saraswati—found himself wandering in the forest due to his misdeeds, eventually arriving at the hermitage of the great sage (*Maharishi*) Kaundinya. Acting upon the sage's instructions, he observed the Mohini Ekadashi fast; as a result, his sins were absolved, and he attained residence in the celestial realms (*Uttam Lok*).
Sanjay Sarraf concluded by stating that Mohini Ekadashi is not merely a religious ritual, but rather a profound medium for self-purification and personal transformation, inspiring individuals to walk the path of truth, self-restraint, and virtuous conduct.
