Papankusha Ekadashi: Reciting it frees one from Yama
Delhi News
Lord Krishna proclaimed to the King that the Ekadashi occurring during the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashwin is revered as ‘Papankusha.’ This sacred day is regarded as the most auspicious, capable of erasing all sins. Devotees are encouraged to worship me, Vasudev, who is affectionately known as Padmanabha. By doing so, they can fulfill their desires and attain both heavenly bliss and salvation. The rewards attained by a Muni, who practices stringent penance and maintains control over his senses for extended periods, can be achieved on this divine day simply by bowing down to Lord Garudadhwaj. Thus, the significance of this Ekadashi is immense, allowing even the ordinary devotee to access spiritual rewards that usually require arduous efforts, instilling hope and inspiration in all.
Moreover, simply chanting the name of Lord Vishnu on this blessed day grants a person the equivalent benefits of visiting all holy places and temples across the earth. Those who take refuge in the omnipresent Lord Janardan, who wields the Sharnga bow, are assured of escaping the agonies of Yamaloka. The power of fasting on Ekadashi is so profound that even if one observes it for other intentions, they are still shielded from Yama’s torment. This emphasizes the unparalleled grace and mercy of Lord Vishnu, making Papankusha Ekadashi a day of immense spiritual potential and divine blessings.

If someone who worships Lord Vishnu criticizes Lord Shiva, they will not find a place in Lord Vishnu’s realm and will instead face punishment in hell. Likewise, a follower of Lord Shiva, or a Pashupat, who speaks ill of Lord Vishnu, will be cast into the terrible Raurava hell, where they will suffer until they have endured the lifespan of 14 Indras. However, observing Ekadashi offers tremendous benefits: it grants entry to heaven and salvation, promotes good health, and brings wealth, friends, and even beautiful partners.
O King, by fasting during the day and staying awake at night on Ekadashi, one can easily reach Vishnu Dham. This transformative fast liberates ten generations on their mother’s side and ten generations on their father’s side. Men who observe the Ekadashi fast become divine beings, appearing with four arms, adorned with a garland of Garuda’s flag, and dressed in yellow. These blessed souls ultimately ascend to the abode of Lord Vishnu, where they are embraced by divine grace. This transformative power of the fast empowers and motivates the devotees to observe it with utmost dedication.
The Power of Papankusha Ekadashi: A Path to Salvation and Virtue
By simply observing the fast of Papankusha during the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashwin, an individual can cleanse themselves of all sins and ascend to the divine realm of Hari. Those who generously donate gold, sesame seeds, land, cows, food, water, shoes, and umbrellas will never have to encounter Yamraj, the lord of death. Even individuals with limited means can make their days meaningful by engaging in righteous activities, such as khandan, in accordance with their abilities. Engaging in virtuous deeds like performing homas, taking holy baths, chanting sacred mantras, meditating, and conducting yajnas shields one from the dreadful torments of Yama. It is believed that those who enjoy long lives, wealth, nobility, and prosperity in this world are often the virtuous souls of past lives. This stress on the importance of virtuous acts makes the audience feel responsible and accountable for their actions.

Such virtuous individuals are destined for elevated realms. There is no need to elaborate further on this topic; the consequences of one’s actions are clear—people may suffer due to their sins, but those who engage in virtuous acts are rewarded with entry into heaven. O King, I have shared the significance and power of Papankusha as you requested. Is there anything else you wish to know?
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