Why is reading the Bhagavad Gita so essential on Mokshada Ekadashi?

Because it was on this exact tithi (Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi) in Dvapara Yuga that Lord Krishna revealed the 700 verses of the Gita to Arjuna. Reciting the Gita on its birthday multiplies spiritual merit exponentially.

Can the merit of this fast be dedicated to deceased parents?

Yes, that is the core scriptural purpose revealed in the Brahmanda Purana. Taking sankalpa to offer the punya to one's departed ancestors helps liberate them from lower realms.

AnantaMargDigital Sanctuary

Annual

Mokshada Ekadashi

The liberation-granting Ekadashi celebrated on Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi, coinciding with Gita Jayanti and Vaikuntha Ekadashi