Introduction:- 

Apara Ekadashi is a very auspicious and encouraging day for Hindus. Like all other Hindu festivals enjoyed in India, Apara Ekadashi is also celebrated on different dates every year. In 2020, Apara Ekadashi was celebrated on the 18th of May. But 2021, this bright occasion is on the 6th of June. Apara Ekadashi is also Achala Ekadashi and Krishna Ekadashi. Apara Ekadashi drops in Krishna Paksha on the 11th day in Jyeshtha (according to the Hindu calendar Jyeshtha is the third month and as per the Gregorian calendar, it features the month May- June.) The literal meaning of Apara Ekadashi is- Apara: limitless. It is believed that on this day devotees who keep a fast get limitless blessings and love from the lord Vishnu. Apara Ekadashi is known by various names across India. In Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and Haryana- it is known as ‘Bhadrakali Ekadashi.’ Goddess Bhadra Kali is cherished on this day. In Odisha- ‘Jalakrida Ekadashi’ and is celebrated in honor of Lord Jagannath.

Why is Apara Ekadashi is celebrated? 

There was a king known as Mahidwaj, he was a very kind, pious, and good person. He had a younger brother Yajra Dhwaj, who was greedy, deceptive. He killed Mahidwaj due to greed and hatred towards him. He then tossed out his remains under a Peepal tree. Because of this Mahidwaj couldn't attain salvation and his spirit remained there. He used to trouble and haunt everyone who used to pass the tree. One day, a sage Dhaumya was passing through the tree and he noticed or understood the spirit and asked his validity and existence there. When he was conscious of the reality. The sage himself observed a fast of Apara Ekadashi (for blessings of Lord Vishnu, he is the preserver and protector of the universe.) for Mahidwaj's salvation. Lord Vishnu blessed him and hence, Mahidwaj was unrestricted and he attained salvation. 

Shri Krishna narrated the prestige and significance of Apara Ekadashi to King Yudhishthira (eldest son of Pandu).

How is Apara Ekadashi celebrated? 

1. On this day, devotees of Lord Vishnu wake early in the morning and observe an all-day-long fast (for three days) to get rid of their past sins and bad deeds and can end their cycle of birth and death and can attain salvation. (Moksha) 
2. Tulsi leaves with fruits, flowers, and sweets are offered to the Lord. 
3. Devotees recite the story of Apara Ekadashi. 
4. After artis, prasad is distributed and Vishnu Sahastranama is recited. 
5. The devotees take a bath in the holy river in the month of Kartik. 
6. The fast doesn't only include controlling eating but also, remembering the god and worshiping and keeping the mind free from all the negative thoughts.