Shatila Ekadashi (also known as Tilda Ekadashi) takes place on the eleventh day of Krishna Paksha in the month of Posh. “Til” means sesame seeds (commonly known as “Tal”). “Da” means to donate. Hence on this day, one has to donate sesame seeds and clothes to the Brahmins and the needy.
The story of Shatila Ekadashi is narrated in the Bhavishya Purana. The great sage Dalbhya Muni asked Pulastya Muni about the most meritorious Ekadashi of the cold season. Pulastya Muni explained the glory of Shatila Ekadashi.
A woman in a village was greatly devoted to God but never donated food or grain to anyone. Despite her devotion, she continued hoarding her wealth. The Lord appeared before her in a dream and explained that charity is an essential part of spiritual life — by giving generously, one elevates oneself spiritually. He directed her to observe Shatila Ekadashi and perform charity with sesame seeds.
On this day, devotees are instructed to bathe with sesame seeds mixed in the water, offer sesame in the sacred fire (homa), donate sesame to Brahmins, eat sesame as part of the farrari (fasting) diet, and offer sesame to the Lord. Sesame seeds (til) are considered purifying and auspicious, especially in the cold months. The observance of this Ekadashi with charity removes sins and grants liberation.