Rama Ekadashi falls during the Krishna Paksha of Kartik (Damodara) month, right before the festival of Diwali. It is named after Lakshmi Devi (Rama). Observing this fast pleases both Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi Devi, destroying all spiritual and physical poverty and blessing the devotee with pure Vaisnava opulence.
The story revolves around a pious King named Muchukunda, who was a great friend of Lord Indra. In his kingdom, everyone, including all animals and servants, observed Ekadashi strictly. King Muchukunda had a beautiful, deeply religious daughter named Candrabhaga, who was married to Shobhana, the son of King Candrasena.
Shobhana was physically weak and could not tolerate hunger. When he was visiting Muchukunda's palace during the holy day of Rama Ekadashi, he was in deep anxiety. Candrabhaga advised him that in her father's palace, everyone must fast without exception. Determined to follow the law, Shobhana fasted but unfortunately passed away during the night due to extreme physical weakness.
Due to his sincere sacrifice and fasting on Rama Ekadashi, Shobhana was reborn as a glorious king of a magnificent, invisible celestial kingdom on Mandarachala mountain. However, his kingdom was temporary. Candrabhaga, who had observed Ekadashi since childhood, visited him and transferred her lifelong spiritual merit to him. Miraculously, Shobhana's kingdom became eternal and highly glorious. This story highlights the power of lifelong dedication to Ekadashi.
