Rama Ekadasi is observed on the 11th day of the Krishna
Paksha or waning phase of moon in September/October. Rama Ekadasi 2011 date is
October 23. The corresponding moon in traditional North Indian calendar is
Kartik month. In other regions it is Ashwin month and in Tamil culture it is
the Puratassi month. It is believed that by observing Rama Ekadashi one can
wash away all sins committed.
The popular story associated with Rama Ekadashi is that
of a prince who in spite of his physical weakness performed the Ekadasi ritual
and got benefits of it during his next life.
Ekadashi is an important day dedicated to Lord Vishnu
in a Hindu lunar month and it occurs twice in a month. The significance of Rama
Ekadasi was narrated to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is recorded in the
Brahmavaivarta Purana.
All the usual rules associated with Ekadasi fasting is
observed during Rama Ekadashi. Grains and rice are avoided on the day by
devotees observing fast.