Observed during the Krishna Paksha of the Ashadha month, Yogini Ekadashi is one of the most spiritually significant fasts in the Hindu calendar. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this Ekadashi is believed to absolve devotees of sins and grant both material and spiritual blessings. But beyond the rituals lies a powerful story—the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha—that underscores the transformative power of devotion and repentance.
The Story of Hemamali and the Curse of Kubera
According to the Brahma Vaivarta Purana, the tale begins in the celestial city of Alkapuri, ruled by King Kubera, a devout follower of Lord Shiva. Among his attendants was a Yaksha named Hemamali, whose duty was to collect flowers daily from Manasarovar Lake for Kubera’s Shiva puja.
One day, Hemamali, deeply enamored by his beautiful wife Swarupavati, became so engrossed in her company that he forgot his sacred duty. As a result, Kubera’s worship was delayed. Furious at the negligence, Kubera cursed Hemamali with leprosy and banished him from Alkapuri.
Redemption Through Yogini Ekadashi
Shunned and suffering, Hemamali wandered through forests until he encountered the sage Markandeya Rishi. Upon hearing Hemamali’s plight, the sage advised him to observe the Yogini Ekadashi Vrat with full devotion.
Following the sage’s guidance, Hemamali fasted, prayed to Lord Vishnu, and recited the vrat katha with sincerity. Pleased with his penance, Lord Vishnu appeared before him, cured his disease, and lifted the curse. Hemamali was restored to his former glory and reunited with his wife.
Significance of the Vrat
The Yogini Ekadashi fast is said to be as meritorious as feeding 88,000 Brahmins. It is believed to:
Cleanse sins from past lives
Grant peace, prosperity, and spiritual upliftment
Help devotees attain moksha (liberation)
Devotees observe the fast by avoiding grains, beans, onions, and garlic, and by engaging in bhajans, Vishnu Sahasranama recitation, and puja rituals. The fast is broken on Dwadashi Tithi, after the Hari Vasara period ends.