Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha: Story of Vaishya Dhanapal’s Son and the Power of Ekadashi Fasting

Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha: Story of Vaishya Dhanapal’s Son and the Power of Ekadashi Fasting (Image: Canva)

Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha: Mohini Ekadashi, observed during the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) of the Vaishakha month, holds immense religious and spiritual significance. As per ancient scriptures, this Ekadashi is known for liberating devotees from sins and attachments. It is believed that observing a fast on this day leads to salvation and eternal peace.

The story associated with Mohini Ekadashi, as narrated by Lord Krishna to Arjuna in the epic Mahabharata, offers deep moral and spiritual insight. This tale was originally shared by Maharishi Vashishtha with Lord Rama during his time of sorrow over Sita’s separation. Seeking solace and a path to rid himself of grief and sin, Lord Rama asked the sage for guidance, leading to the narration of the Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha.

The Story of Vaishya Dhanapal’s Wayward Son

Long ago, in the city of Bhadravati on the banks of the Saraswati River, lived a prosperous merchant named Dhanapal. Known for his devotion to Lord Narayana and his charitable works, Dhanapal had five sons. Unfortunately, his eldest son strayed far from the righteous path. Addicted to gambling, alcohol, and immoral company, he brought shame upon his family.

Despite repeated warnings from his father and relatives, he refused to change. Eventually, he was cast out of his home. Struggling to survive, he sold his possessions and, abandoned by his so-called friends, turned to theft. Caught and imprisoned for his crimes, he faced severe punishment and was ultimately exiled from the city.

Now living in the forest, he began killing birds and animals to feed himself and make a living, becoming a hardened hunter. One day, while wandering in desperation for food and water, he reached the ashram of Rishi Kaundinya. At that time, the sage had just returned from a holy bath in the Ganga. As droplets from the sage’s wet clothes touched the man, a wave of clarity and remorse washed over him.

Falling at the feet of the sage, the man confessed his sins and pleaded for a path to redemption. Moved by his sincerity, Rishi Kaundinya advised him to observe the Mohini Ekadashi fast with full devotion. Following the sage’s instructions, the man observed the fast, performing the rituals with a pure heart.

Miraculously, his past sins were absolved. Upon his death, he ascended to Vishnu Loka, riding Garuda, the divine vehicle of Lord Vishnu. His transformation became a timeless example of how repentance and devotion can lead even the most sinful soul toward salvation.

Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha: Moral of the Story

This story teaches the power of satsang (company of saints) and the impact of righteous living. Just a moment in the presence of a wise soul can change the course of one’s life. It also reinforces the belief that no one is beyond redemption, and that the path of devotion and fasting can purify even the darkest hearts.

Observing Mohini Ekadashi with sincerity not only frees one from sins but also opens the doors to spiritual growth and eternal peace. Listening to or reading the Mohini Ekadashi Vrat Katha brings immense blessings—equal to the merit of donating a thousand cows. It is a day that reminds us of the power of transformation and the grace of Lord Vishnu.

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