Mohini Ekadashi Katha

In the prosperous city of Bhadravati, there lived a wealthy merchant named Dhanpala. He had five sons, four of whom were devoted and virtuous. But the fifth, Dhrishtabuddhi, was addicted to gambling, illicit company, and wasting money on vice.

When the merchant could bear the disgrace no more, he disowned his wayward son. Dhrishtabuddhi, now penniless and scorned, wandered through forests and villages. He stole and begged to survive, sinking deeper into misery.

One day, exhausted and starving, he stumbled upon the hermitage of the sage Kaundinya. The sage was performing his morning rituals by the riverbank. Dhrishtabuddhi fell at his feet and wept, describing his wretched condition.

The compassionate sage said: "You have suffered greatly because of the sins of this life. But there is a path to redemption. Observe the Mohini Ekadashi — the Shukla Ekadashi of Vaisakha — with full devotion. Fast, worship Lord Vishnu, listen to His glories, and spend the night in His remembrance."

Dhrishtabuddhi was transformed by the sage's words. He observed the Mohini Ekadashi faithfully, staying awake all night, weeping in repentance before the image of Lord Vishnu. As dawn broke and he completed his fast on Dwadashi, a profound peace descended upon him.

By the merit of this single Ekadashi, all the sins of his past were destroyed. He was granted a divine body, reunited with his family, and in time became a great devotee of the Lord. Mohini Ekadashi has the power to purify even the most sinful soul.