Shat-tila Ekaadasi 2024

Dear Members:


Shat-Tila ekaadashi falls on February 5/ February 6, 2024 this year.

SCHEDULE OF THE FAST FOR PEOPLE LIVING IN DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE WORLD

a) Those living in US, Canada, and other countries of North and south American continents and following Smaartha traditions must observe this on February 5, 2024.

b) Those living in the above places and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe this on February 6, 2024.

Note:  February 6, 2024 is the Gauna Ekaadasi for those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South America; i.e. this is the RECOMMENDED Ekaadasi to be observed by saints, ascetic persons, and those following the vairaaghya maarga (shunning materialism and embracing spirituality fully) - eve if they are from Smaartha traditions.  Those who are following ascetic path may observe both Feb 5 and Feb 6th as days of fast; if that is not possible, householders may observe this on February 5th, and ascetics and those not in family life may observe this on February 6, 2024.

c) Those living in U.K., and Portugal and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe this on January 18, 2023. (Ascetics living in these regions may ideally fast on both Jan 17th and Jan 18th; ALSO, Smaarthaas may also observe January 18th as Gauna Ekaadasi (highly recommended) instead of fasting on January 17th, though it is permissible for those from Smartha traditions and living in these places to observe the fast only on January 17th.).

c)  Those living in other countries of the world - including India - must observe this on February 6, 2024.

Significance of Shat-tila ekaadasi...

Shat-Tila literally means "six sesame seeds." The fast is understaken on this day after consuming a glass of water in which six sesame seeds have been soaked. You have to mix six sesame seeds in water and then take a bath with it first. Then drink a glass of water in which 6 sesame seeds have been soaked, offer oblations to pitrus (deceased ancestors/ rishis of the past) with water mixed with sesame, and then fast on this day. Observing this will help you in winning the six major internal enemies for the soul (Raagha, DwEsha, LObham, Moham, Madam, Maacharyam), and thus ensure your spiritual progress.


Observance of this fast will ensure removal of all sins and help to keep your karmic balance sheet healthy, allowing you to progress through spiritual levels with least of obstacles.


May our members observe this holy fast and enjoy Divine Grace. [Please note that those who are forbidden to fast due to medical indications may observe this fast on a token-basis instead of undertaking a full fast; like - you may consume only fruits, or avoid only rice items, etc. But, please try to observe the fast in some form consistent with your physical condition and environmental conveniences as this is one of the more strongly recommended ekaadashi fasts].

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI
Astrological and Remedial consultant
www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi