🌸 Parswa Parivartana Ekadashi – The Day Lord Vishnu Turns
By Lokanath Mishra
The holy Ekadashi of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Bhadra is celebrated as Pārswa Parivartana Ekadashi, also lovingly called Padma Ekadashi. Out of all the Ekadashis in a year, this is one of the most sacred.
🌿 Why is it called “Pārswa Parivartana”?
During the four holy months of Chaturmas, Lord Vishnu is believed to rest in Yogic sleep on the cosmic serpent, Sheshanaga. On this Ekadashi day, He gently turns to His other side. This divine movement is celebrated as Pārswa Parivartana (changing sides). Devotees believe it brings balance in the universe and blessings in their lives.
🙏 The Glory of this Day
According to scriptures, observing a fast and prayer on this Ekadashi washes away sins, protects families from troubles, and fills homes with peace.
In Jagannath Temple at Puri, this day is celebrated with the grand Pārswa Parivartana Yatra. The Lord is given a holy bath, dressed in new clothes, sandalwood paste is applied, and He is taken in a ritual procession. Special pujas, offerings, and the symbolic “side-turning” ceremony are performed with great devotion.
📖 The Story of King Mandhata
Long ago, the righteous King Mandhata ruled his kingdom with justice and compassion. His people were happy, free from disease and sorrow. But due to past karmas, a terrible drought lasted three years. Crops failed, hunger spread, and suffering grew.
The King prayed for a solution and went to sage Angiras. The sage revealed that observing Padma Ekadashi Vrat would please Lord Vishnu and bring rain. The King and his people observed the fast with devotion, offering prayers, food, and gifts to Brahmins. Immediately, clouds gathered, rains fell, crops grew, and happiness returned to the kingdom.
🌸 How to Observe This Ekadashi
• Keep a fast with devotion to Lord Vishnu.
• Offer curd-rice (dadhi-odana), clothes, shoes, and umbrellas to Brahmins.
• Chant the holy name: “Om Namo Bhagavate Vāsudevāya.”
• Spend the day in prayer, listening to stories of the Lord, and avoid negative thoughts or actions.
✨ Spiritual Message
Pārswa Parivartana Ekadashi reminds us that even in the hardest times, faith and collective prayer can change destiny. Just as Lord Vishnu turns to His other side, our lives too can turn from suffering to joy through devotion.
This sacred day teaches us to let go of sins, embrace purity, and surrender to the Lord. In return, He blesses us with peace, prosperity, and liberation.
🌸 May Lord Vishnu, who lovingly turns to His devotees on this Ekadashi, bless you with joy, harmony, and abundance. 🌸
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya 🙏
The Proposal That Came Back
LOKANATH MISHRA