Kamada Ekadashi takes place during the Shukla Paksha of Chaitra month. It is the first Ekadashi of the Hindu New Year. 'Kamada' signifies the granter of all desires. It is famous for transforming negative states of consciousness into divine purity.
In the golden city of Ratnapura, ruled by King Pundarika, lived a loving Gandharva couple named Lalit and Lalita. Lalit was a magnificent singer and Lalita was a graceful dancer. One day, while singing in the king's court, Lalit's mind wandered to his beloved wife Lalita. Due to this distraction, his voice faltered, and he sang out of tune. The king's advisor noticed this and complained to King Pundarika.
Furious at Lalit's negligence, the king cursed him to instantly turn into a giant, flesh-eating monster (monster/rakshasa). Lalit's beautiful body grew hideous, and he began wandering the dense forests in extreme misery. Lalita followed her husband, weeping bitterly at his terrible suffering and seeking a way to restore him.
While wandering, Lalita met the great Sage Shringi in his ashram and pleaded for help. The compassionate sage advised her to observe the upcoming Kamada Ekadashi and transfer its spiritual merit to her husband. Lalita fasted with utmost devotion. On the next day, by her offering, Lalit was instantly freed from the demonic form, regaining his beautiful Gandharva body. They flew back to heaven in a golden chariot, proving the supreme power of Kamada Ekadashi.
