Mohini Ekadashi

Mohini Ekadashi is the Shukla paksha Ekadashi of Vaishakha, and the presiding deity is Vishnu in his Mohini form, the enchantress. Of all Ekadashis, this is the one most directly tied to a particular avatara, and it carries a spiritual theme of seeing through illusion. Moha means delusion or infatuation, and the vrata is often described as a day to loosen attachments.

Some accounts credit the Surya Purana, while many link the day with the churning of the ocean. After the amrita appeared, the gods and the asuras quarrelled over it, and Vishnu took the beautiful Mohini form to distribute it to the devas. Other Puranic retellings give different characters, so the story here keeps to the broad outline.

On this day devotees worship Vishnu, often with a picture or idol of Mohini in some temples, offer tulsi, and avoid grains. Many treat it as a chance to examine their own habits, whether in relationships, possessions, screens or other dependencies, and to take one small step toward moderation. Such reflection is meant as spiritual practice and does not replace medical or counselling help for anyone struggling with addiction. The parana is on the dvadashi morning, and people who are unwell should consult a doctor about fasting.