Shattila Ekadashi, a sacred day in Hinduism, holds immense spiritual significance. This auspicious occasion is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed with great devotion to seek blessings for prosperity and salvation. In 2025, Shattila Ekadashi will be celebrated on January 25th, Saturday. Observing this Ekadashi with faith and rituals is believed to cleanse sins and bring peace, happiness, and success.
The Importance of Shattila Ekadashi
Shattila Ekadashi derives its name from the Sanskrit words ‘Shat’ meaning six and ‘Tila’ meaning sesame seeds. This day emphasizes the importance of sesame seeds in various rituals. The observance includes six key activities involving sesame seeds, which are believed to purify the body, mind, and soul.
Key Rituals of Shattila Ekadashi:
- Bath with Sesame Seeds: Taking a bath with water mixed with sesame seeds is said to cleanse the body of impurities.
- Application of Sesame Paste: Using a paste made from sesame seeds as a body scrub is believed to remove negative energies.
- Offering Sesame Seeds in Fire Rituals (Havan): Performing a havan with sesame seeds pleases the deities and attracts divine blessings.
- Tarpaṇ (Offering to Ancestors): Offering sesame seeds during tarpaṇ helps in seeking the blessings of ancestors.
- Donating Sesame Seeds: Charity, especially of sesame seeds, is considered highly meritorious on this day.
- Consumption of Sesame-based Foods: Eating food prepared with sesame seeds purifies the body and soul.
The Significance of Fasting on Shattila Ekadashi
Observing a fast on Shattila Ekadashi is a revered practice. Devotees abstain from grains and certain foods, consuming only a single meal comprising fruits and milk. The fast is believed to:
- Eradicate sins committed knowingly or unknowingly.
- Purify the soul, leading to spiritual upliftment.
- Bring prosperity and peace to one’s life.
Tulsi Worship on Shattila Ekadashi
Tulsi (Holy Basil) holds a special place in Hindu rituals, especially on Shattila Ekadashi. Devotees perform Tulsi Puja to invoke the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi, who is believed to reside in the Tulsi plant. The day starts with a ritual bath, followed by offering water to the Tulsi plant, lighting a lamp with clarified butter (ghee), and chanting specific mantras.
Key Mantras for Tulsi Worship:
- Mahaprasada Janani Sarva Saubhagya Vardhini, Adhi Vyadhi Hara Nityam Tulasi Tvam Namostute
Translation: O Mother Tulsi, you grant divine offerings and enhance all fortunes. You remove all ailments and sufferings. We bow to you repeatedly. - Namo Namaste Tulasi Pāpam Hara Haripriye
Translation: O Tulsi, beloved of Lord Vishnu, you destroy all sins. We bow to you repeatedly. - Om Subhadrāya Namah
Translation: Salutations to the auspicious one. - Mātas Tulasi Govinda Hridayānanda Kāriṇī, Nārāyaṇasya Poojartham Chinomi Tvām Namostute
Translation: O Mother Tulsi, you bring joy to Lord Govinda’s heart. I offer my worship to you for the reverence of Lord Narayana. I bow to you. - Om Suprabhāya Namah
Translation: Salutations to the one who brings prosperity.
Benefits of Observing Shattila Ekadashi
Spiritual Benefits:
- Cleansing of Sins: The observance of this Ekadashi is believed to absolve past sins and prevent new karmic debts.
- Moksha (Liberation): Devotees seek ultimate liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Material Benefits:
- Prosperity and Wealth: The rituals performed on this day are said to attract wealth and prosperity.
- Health and Well-being: The emphasis on sesame seeds, known for their health benefits, symbolically promotes physical and spiritual health.
