AmalakiEkadashi

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   The main day of the Falgun Mela

   The world-famous Falgun Mela of the Khatu Shyam temple runs from Phalguna Shukla Shashthi to Dwadashi, and Amalaki Ekadashi is its peak. On this day the 17-km road from Reengus to Khatu fills with nishan-bearing padyatris, and Baba's darbar stays open through the night.

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   The day of amla worship

   The Puranas describe the amalaki (amla) tree as dear to Vishnu, born of his tears. On this Ekadashi the Lord is worshipped beneath the amla tree with parikrama — and gifting and eating amla is held meritorious.

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   Nishan and Shyam devotion

   On this Phalguna Ekadashi devotees offer Baba the nishan — a flag of fulfilled wishes and gratitude. Making that offering on foot, at the court of the "support of the defeated" (Haare ka Sahara), is the most living tradition of Shyam devotion.

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   Sattvic food and restraint from the night of Dashami.
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   On Ekadashi, bathe at dawn, worship Vishnu / Shyam Baba and take the vow.
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   Worship beneath the amla tree with parikrama; gift and take amla.
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   If at Khatu, offer the nishan and take Baba's darshan; otherwise keep bhajan-kirtan and Shyam remembrance at home.
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   Break the fast (paran) on Dwadashi morning, giving food as you are able.

Amalaki Ekadashi — FAQ

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   How is Amalaki Ekadashi connected to Khatu Shyam?

   Amalaki Ekadashi (Phalguna Shukla Ekadashi) is the main day of the Falgun Mela of Khatu Shyam Ji — lakhs of devotees walk to Baba's court carrying nishan flags, and the temple stays open through the night.
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   Why is the amla tree worshipped on Amalaki Ekadashi?

   The Puranas describe the amla (amalaki) tree as dear to Vishnu, born of his tears. On this Ekadashi the Lord is worshipped beneath the amla tree with parikrama, and gifting and eating amla is held meritorious.
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   When does Amalaki Ekadashi fall?

   Amalaki Ekadashi falls in the bright fortnight of Phalguna, about four days before Holi — during the days of the Falgun Mela.