✦ VRAT AND UPAVAS · Ekadashi
Ekadashi Vrat
The Sacred 11th Tithi Observance of Lord Vishnu
What is Ekadashi?
Ekadashi (Sanskrit: Ekadashi, "the eleventh") refers to the 11th Tithi (lunar day) of each fortnight. Since the Hindu lunar calendar has two fortnights per month (Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha), Ekadashi occurs twice per lunar month, making 24 Ekadashis in a standard year and 25 or 26 in a year with an Adhika Masa (intercalary month).
The Padma Purana dedicates an entire section (Uttara Khanda) to the glory of Ekadashi, describing it as the most powerful day for Vishnu worship. The text states that observing Ekadashi with sincerity for 12 consecutive years can grant liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death. Even partial observance confers substantial spiritual merit.
The philosophical basis is that on Ekadashi, the influence of tamasic energies (those promoting lethargy, ignorance, and lower impulses) is heightened. The traditional grain-free fast serves to reduce these energies and make the mind more receptive to spiritual practices. Modern research on intermittent fasting aligns with this ancient wisdom, confirming metabolic and cognitive benefits of periodic grain abstinence.
Fasting Rules
What to Avoid
All grains and cereals are prohibited: rice, wheat, barley, millet, corn, and foods made from them. Lentils and most legumes are also avoided. Onion and garlic are prohibited on all Vrat days as they are considered tamasic. Non-vegetarian food is strictly forbidden.
What is Permitted
Fruits, milk, yogurt, ghee, rock salt (Sendha Namak), buckwheat flour (Kuttu), water chestnut flour (Singhara), amaranth (Rajgira), and sweet potatoes are all permitted. A full fast (Nirjala) without even water is practised by the very devout, especially on Nirjala Ekadashi in June.
Parana (Breaking the Fast)
The fast should be broken on the Dwadashi (12th Tithi) the following morning, after sunrise and within a specific time window prescribed in the Panchang. This window is called Parana Kala. Breaking the fast outside this window reduces the merit of the observance. A small quantity of water and food is taken first, followed by a regular meal.
Major Ekadashis of the Year
Nirjala Ekadashi (June)
The most severe fast of the year. "Nirjala" means without water. Observed completely without food or water for 24 hours. Equivalent in merit to observing all 24 Ekadashis in the year, per Brahma Vaivarta Purana.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi (December)
Mokshada Ekadashi in December, considered Vaikuntha Ekadashi in South Indian tradition. The gates of Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu's abode) are said to open on this day. Devotees perform all-night vigil (Jagaran) at Vishnu temples.
Devshayani Ekadashi (July)
Marks the beginning of Chaturmas (the four holy months). Lord Vishnu is said to retire into yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on this day. Major Vratas and spiritual retreats traditionally begin on Devshayani Ekadashi.
Devutthana Ekadashi (November)
Lord Vishnu wakes from his Yoga Nidra. Marks the end of Chaturmas. Marriage ceremonies resume after a four-month pause. Also called Prabodhini Ekadashi, the "awakening" Ekadashi.
Ekadashi Dates 2026
Dates are approximate. Exact Ekadashi Tithi start and end times vary by location. Consult your local Panchang for precise timings.
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