Sattila Ekadashi Celebration at Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi

Sattila Ekadashi is a highly revered and spiritually significant festival celebrated with deep devotion at Shri Jagannath Mandir in Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi. This auspicious day falls on the eleventh day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Magha. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Sattila Ekadashi emphasizes the importance of charity, spiritual purity, and devotion.

Significance

Sattila Ekadashi is named after “tila” (sesame seeds), which play a crucial role in the observance of this day. Devotees believe that performing charitable acts using sesame seeds on this day purifies the soul and washes away past sins. The day is also dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection, seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu for a life of prosperity and spiritual fulfillment.

Preparations and Decorations

In preparation for Sattila Ekadashi, Shri Jagannath Mandir is adorned with beautiful decorations, including fresh flowers, colorful lights, and intricate rangoli designs. The idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are dressed in new clothes and ornaments, enhancing the divine and festive atmosphere of the temple.

Rituals and Celebrations

Morning Rituals: The celebrations begin early in the morning with the Mangala Arati, a sacred ritual to awaken and honor the deities. Devotees gather in large numbers, chanting hymns and mantras with deep devotion, invoking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Special Puja and Offerings: Special pujas are conducted throughout the day, with a focus on offerings made with sesame seeds. Devotees present a variety of items, including sesame seeds, sesame oil, sweets made from sesame, and other traditional offerings to the deities. The priests perform elaborate rituals, reciting verses from sacred scriptures to invoke divine blessings.

Fasting and Prayer: Observing a fast is a significant aspect of Sattila Ekadashi. Devotees abstain from consuming grains and pulses, often partaking only in fruits, milk, and water. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind, making devotees more receptive to spiritual experiences and divine blessings.

Bhajans and Kirtans: The temple resonates with the melodious sounds of bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (devotional chants) dedicated to Lord Vishnu. These musical offerings create a serene and uplifting atmosphere, enhancing the spiritual experience for all present.

Evening Rituals: In the evening, a special arati is performed, followed by the distribution of prasadam (sacred food offered to the deities). Devotees partake in the prasadam, which is believed to carry the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Charity and Community Involvement: Sattila Ekadashi is also a day for performing charitable acts, especially those involving sesame seeds. Devotees distribute sesame seeds, sesame oil, clothes, and food to the needy, embodying the spirit of compassion and generosity. The temple community comes together, fostering a sense of unity and shared spiritual purpose.

Conclusion

The celebration of Sattila Ekadashi at Shri Jagannath Mandir in Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi, is a spiritually enriching and community-strengthening event. It is a day marked by deep devotion, elaborate rituals, and acts of charity, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and unwavering faith of the devotees. Through prayers, fasting, and collective worship, the festival reinforces the eternal bond between the divine and the human, guiding devotees on their spiritual journey and bringing blessings of health, prosperity, and well-being