Ekadashi Dates 2026

Ekadashi is the eleventh day (tithi) of each of the two lunar phases of the Hindu calendar month - Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase) and Krishna Paksha (the waning phase). There are 24 Ekadashis in a calendar year, each with its own name and significance.

Why is Ekadashi Observed?

• Spiritual Purification: Ekadashi is primarily observed for spiritual purification. Observing Ekadashi fasts is believed to cleanse the mind and body, reduce sins, and promote spiritual growth.
• Devotion to Lord Vishnu: Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Fasting on this day is thought to please Vishnu, who is considered the preserver of the universe, thereby granting the devotee blessings for spiritual liberation (moksha).
• Health Benefits: From a health perspective, periodic fasting like that on Ekadashi can have detoxification benefits, aiding in digestion, and providing rest to the digestive system.
• Mythological Significance: Various legends connect Ekadashi to different avatars of Vishnu, narrating how observing this fast has helped devotees in times of distress or led to divine boons.

How is Ekadashi Observed?

• Fasting: The main observance of Ekadashi involves fasting. The level of fasting can vary; some devotees abstain from all food and water (nirjala vrat), while others might avoid grains, beans, and certain spices, consuming only fruits, milk, or light sattvic food.
• Parana: Breaking the fast, known as parana, is traditionally done on the next day, Dwadashi, after sunrise and before the end of the tithi.

Prayer and Devotion:

• Worship: Devotees often perform puja (worship) dedicated to Lord Vishnu or Krishna, including chanting Vishnu Sahasranama (1000 names of Vishnu), reading or listening to the Bhagavad Gita, or other sacred texts.
• Visits to Temples: Visiting temples dedicated to Vishnu or Krishna is common on Ekadashi.
• Avoidance: Observance includes avoiding certain activities like sleeping during the day, consuming meat, alcohol, or any food considered tamasic or rajasic (which might disturb mental peace). Charity: Giving alms or food to the needy is considered auspicious on Ekadashi.
• Vigil: Some devotees stay awake the entire night in vigil, chanting, singing devotional songs (bhajans), or engaging in meditation.
• Special Ekadashis: Certain Ekadashis like Nirjala Ekadashi, Satyanarayan Vrat, or Vaikuntha Ekadashi have unique rituals or stories associated with them, increasing their significance.

The observance of Ekadashi varies with personal and regional customs, but the core principle remains the same - a day of spiritual discipline aimed at cleansing, devotion, and introspection.