Aashada Ekadashi & the Pandharpur Wari: A Sacred Journey of Devotion, Duty, and Divine Presence
I was genuinely perplexed when I realized I’d skipped writing about Aashada Ekadashi, especially after reflecting so deeply on Vaikuntha Ekadashi in a previous post. But perhaps that pause has given this moment more meaning. In the spiritual rhythm of the Indian lunar calendar, days like Ekadashi, Triyodashi, Amavasya (New Moon), and Pournima (Full Moon) are not mere dates—they are cosmic alignments rooted in mythology, inner science, and centuries-old practice. Among the 24—or sometimes 26—Ekadashis that grace the year, Aashada Ekadashi, also called Devshayani Ekadashi or Toli Ekadashi in Telugu, holds the most profound place. The Meaning Behind Ekadashi "Ekadashi" literally translates to the eleventh tithi—the 11th day of each fortnight in the lunar month. These fall during two phases: • Shukla Paksha – the waxing moon, a time of growth and illumination. • Krishna Paksha – the waning moon, symbolic of introspection and release. In both Jainism and Hinduism, Ekadashi is dee...