Parivartini Ekadashi

Parivartini Ekadashi falls during Chaturmas and is linked with the image of Vishnu changing his side while in cosmic sleep, which gives the day its name “Parivartini”. It is also known as Vamana or Parsva Ekadashi because the festival tradition recalls Vishnu’s Vamana incarnation and King Bali. The well-known story tells how the dwarf Brahmin Vamana asked Bali for only three steps of land, then expanded to cosmic size: with two strides he encompassed earth and heaven, and Bali humbly offered his own head for the third. Pleased by the king’s surrender, Vishnu granted him honour and protection. The Ekadashi therefore combines Chaturmas devotion with the themes of humility, keeping one’s word and surrendering pride. Devotees worship Vishnu or Vamana, fast from grains, offer Tulsi and charity, and complete the vrata with Dwadashi parana.

Vishnu is said to turn over in his sleep - parivartini, the turning - which marks the halfway point of chaturmas. Also called Parsva Ekadashi, and the same day is Vaman Jayanti.

The ordinary fast, kept at the midpoint of chaturmas. Curd and rice are given away on this one.