It states in Padma Puran that keeping the vratt of Jaya Ekadashi earns immense benediction for anyone. The rewards include the fulfilment of desires, destruction of great sins, and ultimately help one to progress on the path of salvation.
Great rewards and benefits, even greater than performing various donations, yagnas and visits to various pilgrimages (tirthyatra), are earned by those who observe the vratt with full faith and vigour on this day.
Jaya Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Magh. “Jaya” means victory. One who observes this Ekadashi with sincere devotion attains victory over sin and ultimately victory over the cycle of birth and death.
The story associated with Jaya Ekadashi involves celestial musicians (Gandharvas) who were cursed to wander on earth due to their misconduct in heaven. By observing Jaya Ekadashi under the guidance of Lord Indra and seeking Lord Vishnu’s grace, they were freed from the curse and restored to their heavenly abode. This illustrates the supreme power of this Ekadashi in removing even the most severe of curses and sins.