Pāpamocanī Ekādaśī: 26.3.2025

King Yudhishthira said, "O Supreme Lord, I have heard from You about the observance of Amalaki Ekadashi, which falls during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Phalguna (February-March). Now, I wish to learn about the Ekadashi that occurs during the waning phase of the moon in the month of Chaitra (March-April). What is its name, O Lord, and what benefits does one gain by observing it?"

Lord Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, replied, "O best of kings, I shall gladly explain the significance of this Ekadashi, known as Papamochani Ekadashi, for the benefit of all. The story of this sacred day was once narrated to Emperor Mandhata by the sage Lomasha. King Mandhata asked the sage, 'O great sage, kindly reveal the name of the Ekadashi that falls during the dark fortnight of Chaitra and describe the method of its observance, as well as the benefits it bestows upon those who follow it.'

"Sage Lomasha responded, 'The Ekadashi that occurs during the waning moon in Chaitra is called Papamochani Ekadashi. For a devoted follower, it dispels the influence of malevolent spirits and grants the eight mystical perfections of life. It fulfils all desires, purges one’s past sins, and bestows moral excellence.

'Now, listen to a tale related to this Ekadashi and Citraratha, the chief of the Gandharvas, the celestial musicians. During the spring season, Citraratha, accompanied by heavenly dancers, visited a magnificent forest brimming with an array of blooming flowers. Many other Gandharvas and Kinnaras had also gathered there, as had Lord Indra, the ruler of the heavens, who had come to enjoy the beauty of the grove. The gods favoured this celestial garden, particularly in the months of Chaitra and Vaishakha (April-May), and many sages performed austerities there.

'Among these sages was Medhavi, a great ascetic. The enchanting celestial dancer Manjughosha, captivated by his austerity, sought to entice him. Although she was hesitant to approach him due to his spiritual power, she settled a short distance away and began to sing melodiously, playing her tambura. Her voice, sweet as nectar, stirred even the god of love, Kamadeva, who decided to use her to distract the sage. Using her beauty as a weapon, Kamadeva sought to shatter Medhavi’s deep meditation.

'As Manjughosha sang and played, her jewellery tinkled harmoniously, creating an irresistible melody. Medhavi, despite his years of penance, was enchanted. Overcome by desire, he abandoned his meditation and succumbed to the charms of the celestial maiden. Thus, he spent many years in her company, oblivious to the passage of time.

'After fifty-seven years, nine months, and three days, Manjughosha finally wished to leave and requested Medhavi’s permission to depart. The sage, believing only a single night had passed, asked her to stay until the next day. However, upon realising how much time had elapsed, he was filled with rage. Seeing Manjughosha as the cause of his downfall, he cursed her to become a pisacha, a malevolent spirit.

'Overcome with remorse, Manjughosha pleaded for mercy, reminding him that prolonged association with saints often mitigates the effects of their curses. Medhavi, though furious, instructed her to observe Papamochani Ekadashi, assuring her that by fasting on this sacred day, she would be freed from her curse and regain her celestial form.

'When Medhavi returned to his father’s ashram, the great sage Chyavana admonished him for his lapse. Medhavi asked for a way to atone for his sins, and Chyavana Muni advised him to observe Papamochani Ekadashi. Following his father’s guidance, Medhavi observed the fast and was absolved of his transgressions. Similarly, Manjughosha observed the fast and was released from her curse, ascending once more to the celestial realms.'

"Lomasha Rishi concluded, 'O King, the merits of observing Papamochani Ekadashi are immense. Whoever observes this fast with sincerity will have all their sins eradicated.'

Lord Krishna then added, "O Yudhishthira, whoever listens to or reads about the glories of Papamochani Ekadashi gains the same merit as one who donates a thousand cows in charity. Furthermore, observing this Ekadashi absolves one of even the gravest sins, including the killing of a Brahmin, abortion, drinking intoxicants, and illicit relations with a guru’s wife. Such is the unparalleled merit of this sacred day, which is exceedingly dear to Me."

Thus concludes the narration of the glories of Papamochani Ekadashi.

Source: pgs. 63 - 66, Ekadasi: The Day of Lord Hari by Krsna Balaram Swami