Kamika Ekadashi

Kamika Ekadashi is known more for its mahatmya than for a single human drama. In the traditional narration, Krishna recounts to Arjuna a teaching associated with Narada and the elders: worship of Vishnu on this Ekadashi, especially with Tulsi leaves and lamps, is praised as a powerful form of devotion. The account repeatedly places inner sincerity above expensive offerings, saying that a simple Tulsi leaf offered with faith is dear to Vishnu. Lighting a lamp, keeping vigil, remembering the Lord and avoiding harmful conduct are presented as ways to turn the mind toward purification. The story tradition also connects the vrata with release from the weight of serious wrongdoing and with reverence for ancestors. Devotees therefore observe Kamika Ekadashi through fasting from grains, Vishnu worship, Tulsi seva, japa, scripture reading, charity and Dwadashi parana.

The first ekadashi after Vishnu sleeps, in Shravan vad. Tulsi leaves are the offering, and the fast is said to carry the weight of a pilgrimage for somebody who cannot make one.

The first ekadashi of chaturmas, in Ashadh's dark fortnight. Tulsi leaves are offered and the fast is otherwise the ordinary one.