Mokshada Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually powerful Ekadashi observances in the Hindu calendar, celebrated on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the Shukla Paksha in the holy month of Margashirsha. This sacred day is believed to bestow moksha (liberation), destroy past sins, and bring peace to departed ancestors. What makes this Ekadashi even more significant is that it coincides with Gita Jayanti, the day when Lord Krishna revealed the sacred teachings of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
Thus, this day represents liberation and divine knowledge, two of the highest spiritual goals of human life.
Significance of Mokshada Ekadashi
According to the Puranas, observing a fast on Mokshada Ekadashi helps cleanse the mind and soul, absolves one from negative karma, and grants blessings for spiritual upliftment. Devotees who follow this fast with sincerity not only receive divine grace for themselves but also help their ancestors attain peace in the afterlife.
The day emphasizes purity, devotion, meditation, and prayer. Devotees refrain from grains, avoid negative thoughts, and engage in continuous remembrance of Lord Vishnu, especially in the form of Lord Krishna.
Gita Jayanti – The Birth of Eternal Wisdom
Gita Jayanti marks the divine moment when Lord Krishna imparted the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna over 5,000 years ago. The Gita is not just a scripture — it is a complete guide to life, duty, self-realization, and dharma.
On this day, devotees recite the Bhagavad Gita, chant its verses, participate in spiritual discourses, and attend temple celebrations dedicated to Lord Krishna. Many temples organize Gita Path, yajnas, bhajans, and satsangs to honor this day.
The teachings of the Gita inspire humans to rise above fear, confusion, and attachment, and to walk on the path of righteousness with courage and clarity.
Rituals Performed on Mokshada Ekadashi
- Fasting with devotion (Ekadashi Vrat)
- Reading and chanting verses from the Bhagavad Gita
- Offering prayers to Lord Vishnu/Krishna
- Charity, feeding Brahmins and the needy
- Prayer for peace and upliftment of ancestors
- Meditation, chanting “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
The fast is usually broken the next morning after Dwadashi Parana, following proper timing.
Spiritual Benefits
- Liberation from the cycle of birth and death
- Removal of sins and past karmic burdens
- Peace and upliftment for ancestors
- Inner clarity, wisdom, and emotional balance
- Better concentration and spiritual awakening
- Blessings of Lord Krishna for harmony and prosperity
Conclusion
Mokshada Ekadashi and Gita Jayanti together create a spiritually potent and transformative day. While Mokshada Ekadashi purifies the soul and opens the path to liberation, Gita Jayanti offers eternal wisdom that guides one toward righteousness, courage, and inner peace. Observing this day with devotion and understanding helps individuals connect deeply with divine teachings, leading to a life filled with purpose, purity, and spiritual fulfillment.