Many legends from the Mahabharata and other Puranas highlight its immense spiritual significance of Apara Ekadashi. Here are some legend and references: 1. Yudhishthira and bhagwan Krishna's Conversation In the Mahabharata, When Yudhishthira asks about the benefits of observing this Ekadashi conversation between Yudhishthira and bhagwan Krishna reveals the significance and benefits of Apara Ekadashi, bhagwan Krishna explains: “Deavotes who observe the Apara Ekadashi with devotion are absolved of all sins, including heinous acts such as killing a Brahmin or abandoning duties. This Ekadashi washes away sins committed knowingly or unknowingly and grants spiritual merit equivalent to taking a bath in the Ganga during a solar eclipse or donating cows and gold.” Lord Krishna also tells that the vrata can liberate even kings and warriors who died in battle, from the cycle of rebirth. 2. Legend of King Mahidhwaj and His Brother Vajra Dhwaj One lesser-known tale tied to the spirit of Apara Ekadashi speaks of King Mahidhwaj, a just and noble ruler. His jealous brother Vajradhwaj killed him and buried his body beneath a peepal tree. The king’s restless spirit haunted the area and one day a sage named Dattatreya came by. Upon sensing the presence of the troubled spirit, Sage Dattatreya kept Apara Ekadashi vrat and rituals for the king’s peace. The spirit was liberated and attained a heavenly abode. This story highlights how even the souls of the dead can benefit from the observance of Apara Ekadashi. 3. Ekadashi's Power to Erase Great Sins In many Puranic texts cited in the Mahabharata’s broader ecosystem (like the Brahmanda Purana), Apara Ekadashi is said to be especially powerful in freeing one from the karmic consequences of: Telling lies, Giving false witness, Cheating in business, Engaging in illicit relationships, And causing harm to others. This Ekadashi is also called ‘Achala Ekadashi’ in some regions, meaning "immovable" — indicating how firmly it grants liberation and merit when observed sincerely.