Mokshada Ekadashi is observed during the waxing phase
of the moon in the month of November – December. The importance of this Ekadasi
was narrated to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is found in the Brahmanda
Purana. Fasting and observing this Ekadasi helps in destroying all the sins. In
2011, the date of Mokshada Ekadashi is December 6. Ekadasi fasting is dedicated
to Lord Vishnu and is observed twice in every Hindu month.
There is a popular belief that observing Mokshada
Ekadasi will help in granting heaven to dead forefathers. Legend has it that
King Vaikanasa, a popular ruler, once had a dream that his father was in hell.
The King found himself helpless as he could not help his father with all his
power and riches. Soon he took the advice of Parvata Muni, who had the
knowledge of past, present and future.
Parvata Muni found that the father of King Vaikanasa
had committed some sins and as a result he was suffering in hell. To help his
father the Saint asked him to observe Moksada Ekadasi.
Soon the king, his wife and relatives observed Mokshada
Ekadashi and saved the King’s father from hell.
All the normal rules associated with Ekadasi fasting is
observed on the day.
The day is also observed as Gita Jayanti.