Ekadashi Fasting Guide
Duration: 1 day (the 11th lunar tithi) · When to observe: Twice a month — Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha Ekadashi
Devotion to Vishnu, cleansing of accumulated karma, peace of mind
Duration
1 day (the 11th lunar tithi)
When to observe
Twice a month — Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha Ekadashi
Fasting type
Strict fastPresiding deity
Lord Vishnu
Purpose
Devotion to Vishnu, cleansing of accumulated karma, peace of mind
What you can eat
- Fresh fruits
- Milk and curd
- Nuts
- Dry fruits
- Sabudana preparations
- Sama rice
- Singhara flour preparations
- Rock salt
- Coconut water
- Sweet potato
- Potatoes (for those with moderate fasting)
What to avoid
- Grains and rice (strictly avoided)
- Lentils and all dals
- Regular salt — use sendha namak
- Onion and garlic
- Spinach, eggplant, and drumstick leaves
- Non-vegetarian food and eggs
Always consult your family tradition — regional customs vary.
Rituals & Practices
- 1
Fast from sunrise to next day sunrise (full Nirjala) or fruit only
- 2
Read or listen to Vishnu Sahasranama
- 3
Chant 'Hare Krishna' or 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya'
- 4
Light incense and offer tulsi leaves to Vishnu image
- 5
Break fast the next day (Dwadashi) after sunrise — this is called Parana
How to Break the Fast
On Dwadashi (12th tithi), within a specific time window called Parana. Breaking fast at the wrong time negates merit.
Vrat Mantra
ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय (Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya)
Chant 108 times on the day of the vrat
Practical Tips
Nirjala Ekadashi (no water either) is the strictest — avoid if you have health issues
Parana timing is crucial — check the exact Dwadashi time in the Ekadashi guide
Sabudana vada or khichdi keeps you full
Even partial fasting (fruits only) earns merit — don't skip just because you can't do full nirjala