Aanola Ekadashi is observed on Shukla Paksha Ekadasi day in Falgun Month. In 2023, Aanola Ekadashi date is March 3.
Amalaki means the Indian Gooseberry tree (botanical name – Phyllanthus emblica).
On this Ekadashi day, Amalaki tree is worshipped. Amla tree is believed as Lord Vishnu and Tulsi as Goddess Lakshmi.
The legend or Aanola Ekadasi vrat katha is mentioned in the Brahmanda Purana as a conversation between Vasista Muni and King Mandhata. The story is associated with King Chitraratha.
This Ekadashi is also referred to as Rangbhari Ekadashi. In Varanasi, Rangbhari Ekadasi is celebrated with utmost gusto.
The next Ekadashi is Papamochani Ekadashi or Papavimochani Ekadasi (Chaitra Krishna Ekadasi / Falgun Krishna Ekadashi).
Aanola Ekadashi is celebrated in a grand way in Banke Bihariji Temple of Vrindavan along with all other temples in Braj Bhumi.