The Ekadashi Vrat Mantra is chanted during the observance of Ekadashi, the eleventh lunar day (tithi) of each fortnight, which is sacred to Lord Vishnu. The textual origin of this vow is found in the Puranas, particularly the Bhagavata Purana (Skandha 9, Chapter 4) and the Padma Purana (Uttara Khanda), where the glories of Ekadashi are extolled. The deity associated is Vishnu, often together with His consort Lakshmi, as the fast is observed to gain their blessings. The primary beej-akshara (seed syllable) used in related mantras is 'Om' (ॐ), as in 'Om Namo Narayanaya', which is a common mantra chanted on this day.
Phonetically, 'Om' represents the primordial sound and the essence of the Vedas. The traditional purpose of the Ekadashi Vrat is to attain liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death, to remove sins (papa), and to secure the grace of Lord Vishnu. According to the Bhagavata Purana (9.4.63-68), King Ambarisha observed Ekadashi and attained Vishnu's favor, highlighting the fast's power to purify the mind and body. The recommended chanting context includes observing a full or partial fast from grains and beans, waking before sunrise, taking a bath, and then chanting the mantra 108 times using a tulsi (basil) mala.
The ideal time is during the Ekadashi tithi, especially in the morning (Brahma Muhurta). The count is typically one mala (108 repetitions) or more. Ritual setting involves a clean, quiet space with an image or idol of Vishnu, offering incense, lamp, and tulsi leaves. Cautions include that the fast should be broken on the next day (Dwadashi) within a specific time window (Parana), as per scriptural injunctions; breaking it incorrectly may diminish the benefits.
Pregnant women, the elderly, and those with health conditions may observe a modified fast. The mantra is chanted with devotion and focus, and it is believed that even a single sincere recitation can bring spiritual merit.
Om, salutations to the divine Lord Vasudeva (Vishnu/Krishna).
The mantra begins with the seed-syllable 'Oṁ' (ॐ), which represents the primordial sound and the essence of the Vedas.