Yogini Ekadashi Vrata Katha.

The story of Yogini Ekadashi Vrata is rooted in Hindu mythology and is often recited during the observance of this fast. Here is the story associated with Yogini Ekadashi:

Once upon a time, in the kingdom of Alakapuri, there lived a king named Kubera. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and had a gardener named Hemamali. Hemamali's duty was to bring flowers from Manasarovar Lake for the king's daily worship of Lord Shiva.

One day, Hemamali went to the lake as usual but instead of returning immediately, he stayed back to spend time with his beautiful wife, Visalakshi. He forgot his duty and the time passed by. In the meantime, King Kubera waited for the flowers to perform his daily worship but Hemamali did not return. The king sent his soldiers to find Hemamali, who was eventually found with his wife.

When Hemamali finally returned, the king was furious at his negligence. In his anger, King Kubera cursed Hemamali to suffer from leprosy and be separated from his wife. Hemamali immediately turned into a leper and was thrown out of the palace.

Suffering from the curse and wandering in the forest, Hemamali met the sage Markandeya. The sage listened to his plight and told him that by observing the fast of Yogini Ekadashi and worshipping Lord Vishnu, he could be relieved of his curse. Hemamali followed the sage's advice with full devotion.

After observing the fast and performing the rituals of Yogini Ekadashi, Hemamali was cured of his leprosy and reunited with his wife. He returned to his normal life, free from the curse, and continued to serve King Kubera.

The story highlights the power of devotion and the importance of observing Ekadashi fasts. It is believed that observing Yogini Ekadashi with faith and devotion can absolve one of sins and bring prosperity and happiness.