Apara Ekadashi is observed on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu 
month of Jyestha. In 2025, this sacred fast is being observed on May 23rd. It is believed that fasting on this day enhances one’s fame, brings prosperity, and increases wealth. On this day, Lord Vishnu should be worshipped with offerings of sandalwood paste, holy Ganga water, and camphor.
Once, the righteous King Yudhishthira asked Lord Krishna to describe the glory and the rituals of the revered Ekadashi known as Achala Ekadashi. Lord Krishna replied:
“O King, this Ekadashi is known as Apara Ekadashi. It is said to bestow immense wealth and fame. Those who observe this fast attain great renown and success. The merit gained from fasting on this day eradicates even the gravest of sins—such as Brahmahatya (killing of a Brahmin), slandering others, and all forms of deceit.
This Ekadashi is especially potent in absolving the sins of infidelity, false testimony, habitual lying, fabricating scriptures, and falsely posing as an astrologer or physician. Even those who commit severe wrongs—like a warrior who abandons the battlefield or a student who disrespects their guru—can be freed from the burden of their sins through this sacred fast.”
Lord Krishna continued:
“It is said that the merit of bathing during Kartik Purnima at all three sacred Pushkar lakes, or offering pind daan (ritual offerings to ancestors) on the banks of the Ganga, is equal to observing Apara Ekadashi. Similarly, the fruits of bathing at Prayagraj during Makar Sankranti, fasting on Shivratri when Guru is in Leo, bathing in the Gomti River, undertaking pilgrimages to Kedarnath or Badrinath during the Kumbh Mela, or donating gold, elephants, horses, or a newly calved cow—are all equaled by the merit of Apara Ekadashi fasting.
This Ekadashi is like an axe to cut down the tree of sin, and like fire to burn away the fuel of karmic impurity. Those who fast and worship Lord Vishnu on this day are liberated from all sins and attain Vishnuloka (the abode of Lord Vishnu).
O King, I have narrated this story of Apara Ekadashi for the benefit of all. Merely listening to or reading this sacred tale absolves one of sins—of this, there is no doubt.”