Apara Ekadashi

Apara Ekadashi is the Hindu Ekdashi event in which worship of Vishnu is offered to clear all the sins, whether they were committed past or present. This Ekadashi is also arranged for two times in the same month, like a few other Ekadashis. The month in which it is organised is called Jayeshta. Worships are offered to get happiness and Vishnu wealth from Vishnu. Sins of ancestors are also cleared if worship to Vishnu is provided for them. 

Ritualistic acts related to Apara Ekadashi

• Ritual performers get up before sunrise and move to Ganga for a bath. After bathing, all bath takers wear new religious dresses and move to the Vishnu temple to worship him. 
• Before offering Apara Puja to Vishnu’s idol, they decorate his idol with yellow flowers. Tulsi Patra is a wrapper to his feet, and Diya lighted with Desi Ghee is presented to him. 
• Vishnu Fast is this day’s prominent ritual consisting of 24 hours duration. Few items like milk and certain fruits are allowed as these can be eaten during the fast time. 
• Satvik food is prepared, which consists of various milky food products and taken to the temple. Only those people can eat Satvik food who have performed Puja to Vishnu. 
• Satvik food is also divided among the poor as a charity activity. The Laksmi idols are also decorated due to their resemblance with Vishnu and Puja to Lakshmi, as Puja is offered to him. Sins of full-day worshippers are cleared, and his ancestors are also blessed with rewarding Vishnu worship on this event.