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This story reveals the divine origins of Ekadashi, a sacred vrat beloved by Lord Vishnu, symbolizing the triumph of devotion and righteousness over tyranny.
Characters in the story:
Lord Vishnu: Lord Vishnu is one of the three major deities in Hinduism, known as the preserver of the universe and the protector of dharma (righteousness). He is often depicted with four arms holding a conch shell, a discus, a mace, and a lotus flower.
Mura: Mura was a very powerful asura (demon) mentioned in Hindu scriptures, who served as a general in Narakasura’s army. Narakasura was the evil demon King of Pragjyotisha.
Bhagwat Ekadashi: Ekadashi is a female energy that emerged from the body of Lord Vishnu to protect him from the demon Mura.
During the Satya Yuga, an asura named Mura, a descendant of Brahma Ji, rose to power. Mura was not only immensely powerful but also extraordinarily cruel. His father, Taaljangh, had already established a lineage of terror, but Mura surpassed even his father in strength and ferocity. Determined to dominate, Mura launched a devastating attack on Swargalok, defeating Indra Dev and the other devas.
Mura seized control of Swargalok, forcing the devas to flee in despair. Feeling helpless and despondent, the devas wandered in search of a solution to reclaim their celestial realm.
In their desperation, they approached Mahadev (Lord Shiva) and narrated their plight. After listening to their grievances, Mahadev advised them that only Shri Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, possessed the power to vanquish Mura.
Acting on Mahadev’s guidance, the devas traveled to Kshirsagar, the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu, and began fervently praying for his assistance.
Moved by their devotion, Shri Vishnu appeared before them and inquired about their distress. Indra Dev narrated how Mura had not only usurped Swargalok but had also spread fear and chaos throughout the universe.
Enraged by the atrocities committed by Mura, Shri Vishnu assured the devas that he would intervene personally.
Accompanied by the devas, Shri Vishnu proceeded to confront Mura. Upon reaching the battlefield, Shri Vishnu witnessed the devas scattering in fear, unable to face Mura’s formidable army.
When Mura saw Lord Vishnu, he arrogantly challenged him, commanding him to halt. Shri Vishnu, his eyes blazing with divine fury, assumed his celestial form (Divya Roop) and began annihilating Mura’s vast army.
The unmatched might of Shri Vishnu caused Mura’s soldiers to panic and flee. However, Mura himself stepped forward to confront Shri Vishnu, initiating a fierce battle.
The duel raged on for a long time, showcasing Mura’s strength and arrogance. However, Shri Vishnu eventually decided to end the asura’s tyranny. With his Sudarshan Chakra, he beheaded Mura, liberating the devas and restoring peace to Swargalok.
After the battle, Shri Vishnu, fatigued from the fight, retreated to a cave in Badarikashram to rest. There, he entered Yoganidra (divine sleep).
Seizing the opportunity, Mura’s spirit, still vengeful, attempted to attack the sleeping Shri Vishnu. At that moment, a radiant divine Feminine Energy manifested from Shri Vishnu’s body. She was none other than Bhagwati Ekadashi.
With her divine energy, she instantly destroyed Mura’s spirit, protecting Shri Vishnu.
When Shri Vishnu awoke and learned of what had transpired, he was deeply pleased with this Divine Lady. In gratitude, he blessed her and asked her to choose a boon.
The divine lady humbly requested, “O Prabhu, if you are pleased with me, grant me the boon that whoever observes a fast and worships me on this day (Ekadashi) shall be blessed with happiness, prosperity, and ultimately attain Moksha (liberation).”
Shri Vishnu joyfully granted her request, proclaiming, “Ekadashi shall now be the most auspicious of all vrats, and it shall be dearest to me. My devotees who observe this vrat with devotion shall receive my blessings and achieve Moksha.”
Thus, the sacred vrat of Ekadashi was established, becoming one of the most revered spiritual practices, cherished by Lord Vishnu. As a symbol of devotion and divine blessings, Ekadashi continues to bring happiness, prosperity, and liberation to countless devotees who observe it with faith and dedication.
