Know about two Ekadashis when Mahaprasad is not prepared in Puri Srimandir

Out of the 24 Ekadashis in the Hindu calendar, only two are observed as occasions when Mahaprasad is not prepared in Puri Srimandir in Odisha, and the intake of anna (rice or cereals) is strictly prohibited.

According to Hindu beliefs, the consumption of anna, rice, or cereals is generally avoided on Ekadashi. However, this tradition is not uniformly observed by Hindus in Odisha. The exception occurs only on two specific Ekadashis when even people in Odisha abstain from eating rice.

The first of these is the Khailagi Ekadashi that falls during the Anavasara period of Lord Jagannath. During this time, Lord Jagannath is believed to fall ill with fever after taking the ritualistic bath on the auspicious occasion of Snana Purnima.

The second is Sayana Ekadashi, which is on Sunday that marks the belief that Lord Jagannath, as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, enters a state of deep slumber for four months.

This day also signifies the beginning of the Sayana Jatra of Lord Jagannath and His siblings. On this occasion, their Chalanti Pratima made of gold are placed inside silver pedis (boxes), symbolising their entry into divine slumber.

These are the only two Ekadashis when Mahaprasad is not prepared in Puri, and the eating of anna is prohibited for devotees.
Ashadhi Ekadashi Celebrations Across India

While Sayana Ekadashi also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi is celebrated on a grand scale in Maharashtra with the iconic Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur, the festival also holds deep spiritual significance across other parts of India.

In states like Karnataka, Telangana, Goa, and Gujarat, devotees observe the day with prayers, fasting, bhajan gatherings, and temple visits, especially in regions where Lord Vishnu or Krishna is revered.

The day marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s four-month cosmic rest, known as Chaturmas, and is considered one of the most auspicious for seeking spiritual growth, peace, and liberation. Devotees typically observe a grain-free fast, engage in rituals such as abhishekam and aarti, and offer simple, sattvic food as bhog.

Reflecting the spiritual and social essence of the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings, stating, “May Lord Vitthal guide us toward a joyful and prosperous society, and may we continue to serve the poor and underprivileged.” 

आषाढी एकादशीच्या या पवित्र दिनाच्या मनोभावे शुभेच्छा! आपल्यावर विठ्ठलाचे आशीर्वाद सदैव असेच कायम राहोत हीच विठ्ठलाच्या चरणी आपली प्रार्थना आणि कामना. भगवान विठ्ठल आपल्याला आनंदी आणि समृद्धीमय समाजासाठी मार्गदर्शन करत राहो, आणि आपणही गरीब आणि वंचितांची सेवा करत राहू या.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2025

His message echoed the spirit of Ashadhi Ekadashi as a time of collective devotion and compassionate service