Ekadashi
The sacred 11th lunar day of Lord Vishnu — observed twice each lunar month, once in Shukla (waxing) and once in Krishna (waning) Paksha.
Ekadashi (एकादशी) means "eleven" in Sanskrit. It is among the most important vrata (fasting) days in the Vaishnava tradition. Each of the 24 Ekadashis in a year has a unique name, associated story from the Puranas, and specific blessings granted by Lord Vishnu (Narayana) to sincere devotees. Fasting on Ekadashi is said to purify the mind, dissolve accumulated karma, and accelerate spiritual progress.
How to Observe Ekadashi
On Dashami (10th tithi — the day before)
- Eat a light sattvic meal in the evening
- Avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol, onion, garlic
- Set your intention for the fast
On Ekadashi
- Avoid all grains, pulses, rice, wheat, lentils
- Permitted: fruits, nuts, milk, sendha namak (rock salt), sabudana, sweet potatoes
- Some observe nirjala (waterless) fast — especially on Nirjala Ekadashi
- Spend time in prayer, kirtan, scripture reading, or silence
On Dwadashi (12th tithi — the day after)
- Break the fast after sunrise, ideally with simple sattvic food
- Feed a brahmin, a cow, or donate food to the poor
- The fast is completed only after Parana (breaking) on Dwadashi
What to Avoid on Ekadashi
- Sleeping during the day
- Speaking untruths or harsh words
- Cutting hair or nails
- Using oil / massage
- Gambling or excessive sensory stimulation
2026 Ekadashi Calendar
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2027 Ekadashi Calendar
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⏰ Missed Parana?
Parana (fast-break) should ideally be done within the specified window on Dwadashi (12th tithi). If you miss it, break the fast as early as possible on Dwadashi — even a brief break is considered valid. Continuing the fast into Trayodashi is discouraged. When in doubt, consult a priest or elder.
Shukla Paksha (Waxing Moon)
Bright fortnight — more widely observed. Dedicated to Vishnu/Hari.
Krishna Paksha (Waning Moon)
Dark fortnight — equal in merit. Both Ekadashis together = full lunar cycle devotion.
All 24 Ekadashis — Complete Guide
Tap any Ekadashi to read its story, deity, fasting rules, and spiritual benefits.
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The Deeper Meaning
The Ekadashi vrata is far more than a dietary fast. It is a vrata — a vow of dedication — where the devotee withdraws the senses from the material world and directs their full consciousness toward the Divine. The practice of fasting reduces the rajasic and tamasic energies that come from heavy digestion, quieting the mind and making deep meditation and prayer accessible.
In the Bhavisyottara Purana, Lord Vishnu tells Yudhishthira: “There is no greater vrata in the three worlds than Ekadashi. I am pleased more by fasting on Ekadashi than by performing all sacrifices, donations, and pilgrimages combined.”
The Ekadashi Devi herself — the divine form who emerged from Lord Vishnu to defeat the demon Mura — is said to reside in the 11th tithi. Observing Ekadashi is therefore an act of worshipping both Lord Vishnu and Ekadashi Devi, receiving the grace of both simultaneously.
Even those unable to observe a strict fast are encouraged to at least avoid grains and spend some time in prayer or scripture on Ekadashi. Any sincere effort, no matter how small, is recognised by Lord Vishnu.