The Ekadashi of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Bhadrapada month is known as Parivartini Ekadashi, also called Vamana Ekadashi. On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in His Vamana (dwarf) incarnation.
It is believed that on this day, during His divine slumber (Yoga Nidra), Lord Vishnu changes His position, hence the name Parivartini (meaning "changing"). This divine sleep spans four months and is known as Chaturmas, a sacred period in the Hindu calendar during which austerities and spiritual practices are observed.
On Parivartini Ekadashi, devotees observe a fast and worship Lord Vishnu in His Vamana avatar. During the worship, the story (katha) of Parivartini Ekadashi is heard. By doing so, the fast is considered complete, and one receives divine blessings and merit.
Puja Procedure:
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Offer pure water to the deity and bathe the idol with Panchamrit (a mix of milk, curd, honey, sugar, and ghee).
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Then again, pour pure water for cleansing.
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Offer sandalwood paste, flowers, incense, lamp, and naivedya (food offering) to the Lord.
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Chant the Vishnu Sahasranama and listen to the story of Lord Vamana.
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Conclude with aarti, distribute prasad to all, and complete the worship.
Parivartini Ekadashi Vrat Katha
In the Treta Yuga, there lived a demon king named Bali. He was extremely devoted, generous, truthful, and a great server of Brahmins. Due to the strength of his devotion, he rose to such power that he began ruling even Indra's throne in heaven. The Devas (gods) could not tolerate this and went to Lord Vishnu to seek help.
In response, Lord Vishnu took the form of Vaman, a dwarf Brahmin, and went to King Bali to request a donation. He humbly asked,
"O King! Grant me three steps of land. You will receive the merit of donating the three worlds."
King Bali, recognizing the divine aura of the Brahmin, agreed. At that moment, Lord Vaman expanded His form to a cosmic size:
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With one step, He covered the earth,
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with the second, the sky and heaven,
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and then asked Bali, "Where shall I place my third step?"
Realizing Vaman was none other than Lord Vishnu, King Bali bowed his head and offered it for the Lord’s third step. Vishnu, pleased with Bali’s devotion and humility, placed His foot on Bali’s head and sent him to Patal Lok (the netherworld).
As a reward for his unwavering devotion, Lord Vishnu blessed Bali, saying:
"During the Chaturmas period (four sacred months), one of My forms will rest in the Kshira Sagar (Ocean of Milk), and another form will remain with you in Patal Lok to protect your kingdom."
Significance of Vrat:
It is believed that on this day, Lord Vishnu changes His side during His yogic sleep, hence the name Parivartini Ekadashi (“Parivartini” means “to turn or change”).
Those who observe this Ekadashi fast with devotion are said to be freed from all sins. Offering lotus flowers to the Lord brings the devotee closer to Him. Worship on this day grants the merit of worshipping the Trinity – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
Though the Lord desires devotion over material offerings, giving charity on Vaman Ekadashi (another name for this day) is highly rewarding. Devotees are encouraged to donate items such as copper, silver, rice, curd, and other essentials to the needy.
Thus, this sacred Ekadashi should be observed with sincerity, devotion, and the spirit of charity.