Padmini Ekadashi on May 27th
A Divine Fast Bestowing Happiness, Peace, Merit, Devotion, and Salvation in Life: Sanjay Sarraf
Ranchi: Sanjay Sarraf, the provincial spokesperson for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Seva Vibhag (Service Wing) and the Shri Krishna Pranami Seva Dham Trust, has stated that the Ekadashi fast holds special significance within Sanatan Dharma. Among all the Ekadashis that occur throughout the year, the Ekadashi falling during the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) of the *Purushottam Adhik Maas* (the intercalary month) is known as Padmini Ekadashi. This year, Padmini Ekadashi will be observed on Wednesday, May 27th. This particular Ekadashi is considered extremely rare and highly meritorious, as it occurs exclusively during the *Adhik Maas*.
He explained that, according to religious beliefs, performing ritualistic worship of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi on this day—along with observing the fast—leads to the attainment of happiness, prosperity, good health, and salvation for an individual. As per mythological narratives, the significance of Padmini Ekadashi is detailed in the Puranas. It is said that observing this fast absolves a person of all sins and infuses their life with positive energy.
Sanjay Sarraf noted that this Ekadashi acquired the name 'Padmini' because it is believed to be intrinsically linked to Goddess Lakshmi's *Padma*—her manifestation as the lotus flower. This fast is considered highly efficacious for propitiating Lord Vishnu. From a religious perspective, devotees on this day take an early morning bath, don clean attire, and offer *Tulsi* leaves, yellow flowers, incense, lamps (*Deep*), and sacred food offerings (*Naivedya*) during their worship of Lord Vishnu.
He further mentioned that many devotees observe either a *Nirjala* (waterless) fast or a *Phalahar* (fruit-based) fast, spending the entire day engaged in singing devotional hymns (*Bhajan-Kirtan*) and reciting the *Vishnu Sahasranama*. It is believed that acts of charity and benevolence performed on this day yield manifold rewards. Furthermore, providing food and clothing to the poor, as well as extending assistance to the needy, is accorded special significance on this occasion.
Sanjay Sarraf emphasized that the true objective of Padmini Ekadashi is not merely to abstain from food, but rather to achieve self-purification, self-discipline, and spiritual advancement. This sacred fast inspires an individual to transcend material attachments and worldly illusions (*Maya*) and to dedicate themselves to the devotion of the Divine. The Ekadashi fast is regarded as a means to purify both the body and the mind, fostering mental peace, positive thinking, and an increase in inner strength.
He stated that this particular Ekadashi, which falls during *Adhik Maas* (the intercalary month), is considered exceptionally auspicious for spiritual practice and penance. Worshipping Goddess Lakshmi alongside Lord Vishnu on this day invites happiness, prosperity, and opulence into the home. This fast is considered particularly beneficial for those facing financial, mental, or familial difficulties in their lives.
Sanjay Sarraf remarked that Padmini Ekadashi conveys a message of righteousness, self-discipline, service, and virtuous conduct. This festival serves as a medium to strengthen the spiritual consciousness and religious traditions of Indian culture. Observed with deep faith and devotion, this fast bestows happiness, peace, and spiritual energy upon one's life.
