In Sanatan Dharma, Ekadashi is regarded as one of the most sacred days dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Besides the twenty-four Ekadashis that occur throughout the year, two special Ekadashis fall during Adhik Maas (also known as Purushottam Maas): Padmini Ekadashi and Parama Ekadashi. Among them, Padmini Ekadashi is considered exceptionally rare and highly meritorious. According to the scriptures, observing this fast with devotion destroys sins, fulfills righteous desires, and brings the special blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Yudhishthira’s Question
According to the ancient narrative, King Yudhishthira once asked Lord Krishna, “O Janardana! Kindly tell me about the significance of Padmini Ekadashi, which falls during the bright fortnight of Adhik Maas. Please explain its glory, observance, and sacred story.”
Lord Krishna replied, “O King! This Ekadashi is among the most exalted of all sacred vows. Its greatness was once narrated by Lord Brahma to the sage Narada. Whoever observes this fast with sincerity and devotion attains prosperity, spiritual merit, and ultimately divine grace.”
The Story of King Kritavirya and Queen Padmini
Long ago, there lived a mighty and prosperous king named Kritavirya, who ruled the kingdom of Mahishmati. He possessed immense wealth, power, and glory, yet one sorrow weighed heavily upon him and his queen, Padmini—they had no child.
Despite their prayers and efforts, years passed without the blessing of offspring. Distressed by this unfulfilled desire, King Kritavirya eventually renounced worldly comforts and retired to the forest with Queen Padmini to perform severe austerities and penance.
The king spent many years in deep meditation and worship, but still their wish remained unfulfilled. Seeing her husband’s body grow weak from rigorous penance, Queen Padmini became deeply concerned.
One day, she approached the revered sage-wife Anasuya, renowned for her wisdom and spiritual power, and humbly asked for guidance to overcome their sorrow.
Anasuya’s Advice
Anasuya compassionately told Queen Padmini, “O noble lady, during Adhik Maas, there comes a sacred observance known as Padmini Ekadashi. If you faithfully observe this fast according to scriptural injunctions and worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, your heartfelt wish shall surely be fulfilled.”
Inspired by Anasuya’s words, Queen Padmini observed the Padmini Ekadashi fast with complete dedication. She maintained strict fasting, worshipped Lord Vishnu, listened to sacred hymns, and spent the night in devotional vigil and prayer.
The Appearance of Lord Vishnu
Pleased by her unwavering devotion and purity of heart, Lord Vishnu appeared before Queen Padmini, seated upon Garuda, His divine vehicle.
The Lord said, “O virtuous queen, I am pleased with your devotion. Ask for any boon you desire.”
With folded hands, Queen Padmini replied, “O Lord, if You are truly pleased with me, bless me with a son of unparalleled strength, virtue, and glory.”
Lord Vishnu granted her wish, saying, “So be it.”
In due course, Queen Padmini gave birth to a brilliant and mighty son. He later became famous as Kartavirya Arjuna (Sahasrabahu Arjuna), a legendary king renowned for his extraordinary power and accomplishments.
Significance of Padmini Ekadashi
The scriptures proclaim that observing Padmini Ekadashi yields the merit of numerous sacrifices, pilgrimages, and charitable acts. It is believed to bestow prosperity, health, happiness, righteous offspring, and spiritual advancement.
Because it occurs only during Adhik Maas, which itself is considered highly sacred, the significance of this Ekadashi is regarded as exceptionally great. Devotees who fast, worship Lord Vishnu, listen to the sacred story, and remain awake in devotional remembrance are said to be freed from many obstacles and blessed with divine favor.
Spiritual Message
The story of Padmini Ekadashi teaches that sincere faith, patience, and unwavering devotion never go unrewarded. Even when difficulties persist for a long time, steadfast dedication to righteousness and devotion to God ultimately bears fruit.
Queen Padmini’s devotion, humility, and perseverance won the grace of Lord Vishnu and transformed her sorrow into joy. Thus, Padmini Ekadashi serves as a timeless reminder that divine blessings come to those who remain faithful, patient, and devoted in the face of life’s challenges.