Ekadashi, the eleventh lunar day in each fortnight of the Hindu calendar, is a profoundly sacred observance dedicated to Lord Vishnu, offering a potent path for spiritual purification and liberation. This authoritative 2026 calendar serves as an indispensable guide for devotees, enabling precise adherence to Ekadashi fasts and rituals for accruing immense spiritual merit.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Presiding Deity | Bhagavan Shri Vishnu (and His various forms) |
| Primary Observance | Vrat (Fasting), Puja, Chanting, Meditation, Charity |
| Origin Scripture | Padma Purana, Skanda Purana, Garuda Purana |
| Spiritual Significance | Destroys sins, grants spiritual merit (Punya), bestows liberation (Moksha) |
| Key Practice | Abstinence from grains and specific foods, spiritual discipline |
| Associated Mantra | Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya (ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय) |
The Sanctity of Ekadashi in Sanatan Dharma
In the vast tapestry of Sanatan Dharma, Ekadashi stands as a jewel of spiritual discipline, a beacon for those earnestly treading the path of devotion. Observed twice a month, on the eleventh day of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of the moon, Ekadashi is supremely consecrated to Bhagavan Shri Vishnu, the preserver of the universe. The practice of observing Ekadashi Vrat (fast) is not merely a dietary restriction; it is a profound spiritual exercise designed to cleanse the body, purify the mind, and elevate the soul towards the divine. It is a day when the spiritual energies are said to be most potent, facilitating deeper meditation, prayer, and introspection, ultimately leading to freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
The scriptures extol the virtues of Ekadashi, declaring that even unintentional observance can mitigate sins, while a dedicated Vrat bestows unparalleled spiritual benefits, including peace, prosperity, and ultimately, Moksha (liberation). For the sincere devotee, understanding the precise dates and timings is crucial to reaping the full spiritual rewards of this sacred day, making a comprehensive calendar an invaluable asset for spiritual practice on Hindutva.online.
Puranic History & The Legend of Devi Ekadashi
The profound significance of Ekadashi is primarily elucidated in the Padma Purana, particularly in the Uttarakhanda section. The legend narrates that a fearsome demon named Mura caused immense suffering to the Devas and Earth’s inhabitants. Unable to defeat Mura, Lord Indra and other Devas sought refuge with Lord Vishnu. After a prolonged battle, during which Lord Vishnu appeared to be resting in Badrikashrama, a divine maiden emerged from His own body (specifically, from His eleventh sense organ or Manas). This resplendent female warrior, known as Devi Ekadashi, single-handedly vanquished the demon Mura. Pleased by her prowess and devotion, Lord Vishnu granted her a boon:
“O Ekadashi, you have emerged from My very being. From this day forward, whoever fasts on your day, the eleventh day of either fortnight, will be liberated from all sins and attain My abode.”
Thus, Ekadashi was born, personified as a divine force capable of destroying sins and granting liberation. The Purana emphasizes that this vow is superior to all other austerities, pilgrimages, or charities. Each of the 24 (or 26 in an Adhik Maas year) annual Ekadashis bears a unique name and narrative, often associated with a specific form of Lord Vishnu and offering particular blessings, as detailed in various Puranas such as the Skanda Purana and Garuda Purana.
The Cosmic Rhythms and Vedic Science of Ekadashi
While temples are architectural marvels, the observance of Ekadashi connects us to the architectural blueprint of the cosmos itself. Vedic seers, through their profound intuitive wisdom, understood the subtle interplay between celestial bodies and the human physiology. The moon, or Soma, is intricately linked to the mind (Manas) and emotional body. As described in the Chandogya Upanishad and various Ayurvedic texts, the lunar phases impact bodily fluids, metabolism, and mental states.
Ekadashi, the eleventh day, marks a specific energetic point in the lunar cycle where the moon’s gravitational pull and subtle influences are believed to be most conducive to internal purification. Fasting on this day helps lighten the digestive system, allowing the body’s energy to be redirected towards spiritual practices and detoxification. This ancient practice aligns the micro-cosmic human system with the macro-cosmic rhythms, enhancing clarity, focus, and spiritual receptivity. It’s a testament to the Vedic understanding that optimal spiritual growth occurs when internal practices are harmonized with universal energies, fostering not just physical health but profound spiritual equilibrium.
Ekadashi Dates 2026: The Complete Fasting Calendar
Adherence to the proper tithi (lunar day) for Ekadashi is paramount. The following calendar provides the Ekadashi dates for the year 2026, along with their traditional names and recommended Parana (breaking fast) timings. Please note that Parana timings are location-specific and subject to sunrise/sunset; it is always advisable to consult a local Vaishnava calendar or Panchang for precise local timings.
- Saphala Ekadashi: January 6, 2026 (Tuesday)
Parana: January 7, 2026, 07:15 AM – 10:15 AM (approx) - Pausha Putrada Ekadashi: January 20, 2026 (Tuesday)
Parana: January 21, 2026, 07:14 AM – 10:15 AM (approx) - Shattila Ekadashi: February 5, 2026 (Thursday)
Parana: February 6, 2026, 07:07 AM – 10:14 AM (approx) - Jaya Ekadashi: February 19, 2026 (Thursday)
Parana: February 20, 2026, 06:55 AM – 10:10 AM (approx) - Vijaya Ekadashi: March 6, 2026 (Friday)
Parana: March 7, 2026, 06:37 AM – 10:04 AM (approx) - Amalaki Ekadashi: March 20, 2026 (Friday)
Parana: March 21, 2026, 06:19 AM – 10:00 AM (approx) - Papmochani Ekadashi: April 5, 2026 (Sunday)
Parana: April 6, 2026, 06:01 AM – 09:55 AM (approx) - Kamada Ekadashi: April 19, 2026 (Sunday)
Parana: April 20, 2026, 05:46 AM – 09:51 AM (approx) - Varuthini Ekadashi: May 4, 2026 (Monday)
Parana: May 5, 2026, 05:32 AM – 09:48 AM (approx) - Mohini Ekadashi: May 19, 2026 (Tuesday)
Parana: May 20, 2026, 05:22 AM – 09:47 AM (approx) - Apara Ekadashi: June 3, 2026 (Wednesday)
Parana: June 4, 2026, 05:18 AM – 09:48 AM (approx) - Nirjala Ekadashi: June 18, 2026 (Thursday)
Parana: June 19, 2026, 05:19 AM – 09:50 AM (approx) - Yogini Ekadashi: July 3, 2026 (Friday)
Parana: July 4, 2026, 05:24 AM – 09:54 AM (approx) - Devshayani Ekadashi: July 17, 2026 (Friday)
Parana: July 18, 2026, 05:31 AM – 09:58 AM (approx) - Kamika Ekadashi: August 2, 2026 (Sunday)
Parana: August 3, 2026, 05:41 AM – 10:04 AM (approx) - Shravana Putrada Ekadashi: August 16, 2026 (Sunday)
Parana: August 17, 2026, 05:51 AM – 10:09 AM (approx) - Aja Ekadashi: September 1, 2026 (Tuesday)
Parana: September 2, 2026, 06:02 AM – 10:15 AM (approx) - Parshva Ekadashi: September 15, 2026 (Tuesday)
Parana: September 16, 2026, 06:13 AM – 10:20 AM (approx) - Indira Ekadashi: October 1, 2026 (Thursday)
Parana: October 2, 2026, 06:24 AM – 10:25 AM (approx) - Papankusha Ekadashi: October 15, 2026 (Thursday)
Parana: October 16, 2026, 06:36 AM – 10:30 AM (approx) - Rama Ekadashi: October 31, 2026 (Saturday)
Parana: November 1, 2026, 06:48 AM – 10:35 AM (approx) - Devutthana Ekadashi: November 14, 2026 (Saturday)
Parana: November 15, 2026, 07:01 AM – 10:41 AM (approx) - Utpanna Ekadashi: November 30, 2026 (Monday)
Parana: December 1, 2026, 07:13 AM – 10:46 AM (approx) - Mokshada Ekadashi: December 14, 2026 (Monday)
Parana: December 15, 2026, 07:22 AM – 10:51 AM (approx)
Rituals & Puja Vidhi for Ekadashi Vrat
Observing Ekadashi requires more than simply abstaining from food; it is a holistic spiritual practice. The general steps are:
- Sankalpa (Intention): On the Dashami tithi (the day before Ekadashi), take a vow to observe the fast with full devotion. Avoid eating grains after sunset.
- Early Morning Purification: On Ekadashi morning, wake up before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Vishnu Puja: Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. Light a lamp (Diya) with ghee, offer incense, flowers, tulasi leaves (especially dear to Vishnu), fruits, and sweets. Recite Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Stuti, or other Vishnu-related prayers.
- Fasting Rules: Devotees choose their level of fasting:
- Nirjala Vrat: Complete abstinence from food and water (observed by advanced devotees, especially on Nirjala Ekadashi).
- Phalahari Vrat: Consumption of fruits, milk, nuts, and specific non-grain items (e.g., kuttu atta, singhara atta).
- Partial Vrat: Avoiding grains, pulses, onions, garlic, and non-vegetarian food, consuming only Ekadashi-approved items once a day.
Strictly avoid rice, wheat, barley, and other grains.
- Spiritual Practices: Engage in continuous chanting (Japa), meditation, reading scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu Purana, or Padma Purana. Avoid worldly conversations and sleep during the day. Perform Jagaran (night vigil) by chanting and singing bhajans.
- Charity (Daan): Perform acts of charity according to your capacity. Donating food, clothes, or money to the needy on this day is highly meritorious.
- Parana (Breaking the Fast): On Dwadashi (the day after Ekadashi), break the fast during the prescribed Parana time. Consume a small amount of Ekadashi-approved food, typically water and a grain (like rice), to officially break the fast. It is crucial to break the fast within the auspicious window; otherwise, the benefits may be lost.
Mantras & Chants for Ekadashi
Chanting the holy names of Lord Vishnu is the essence of Ekadashi observance. Devotees are encouraged to immerse themselves in these sacred sounds:
- Moola Mantra: ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय (Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya) – This is the primary mantra for Lord Vishnu.
- Hari Krishna Maha Mantra: हरे राम हरे राम राम राम हरे हरे । हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे ।। (Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare | Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare ||) – Widely chanted by Vaishnavites.
- Vishnu Sahasranama: Reciting the thousand names of Lord Vishnu is highly beneficial.
- Gopala Sahasranama: For those devoted to Lord Krishna, chanting His thousand names.
- Purusha Suktam: A Vedic hymn in praise of the Cosmic Being, Purusha (Vishnu).
Dos and Don’ts on Ekadashi
The Virtuous Practices (Dos):
- Wake up early, perform ablutions, and bathe.
- Engage in sincere prayer and meditation.
- Chant the names of Lord Vishnu (Japa).
- Read sacred scriptures (e.g., Bhagavad Gita, Srimad Bhagavatam).
- Practice charity and selfless service.
- Observe celibacy (Brahmacharya).
- Maintain silence and mindfulness.
The Prohibited Actions (Don’ts):
- Do not consume grains, pulses, beans, onions, garlic, or non-vegetarian food.
- Avoid sleeping during the daytime.
- Refrain from gambling, gossiping, and speaking harshly.
- Avoid physical intimacy.
- Do not shave or cut hair/nails.
- Do not engage in excessive physical labor.
What is Parana, and why is it so important?
Parana refers to the act of breaking the Ekadashi fast. It is crucial because the spiritual merit of the fast is believed to be fully obtained only if the fast is broken within the auspicious Parana period on the Dwadashi tithi (the twelfth lunar day). Failing to break the fast within this window or breaking it prematurely can negate the spiritual benefits of the entire observance.
Can pregnant women or the infirm observe Ekadashi?
Sanatan Dharma emphasizes spiritual discipline but also compassion. Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and those with severe illnesses are generally advised to observe a modified fast or simply pray and abstain from grains without strict food deprivation. The primary goal is devotion and remembrance of Lord Vishnu, not physical suffering. Consultation with a spiritual guide or family elder is recommended.
What if I accidentally break my Ekadashi fast?
If a fast is accidentally broken, one should immediately confess to Lord Vishnu, seek forgiveness, and resolve to observe the next Ekadashi with even greater sincerity. Performing extra chanting, prayer, or charity can also help mitigate the unintended lapse. The intent behind the fast is considered paramount.
Are all Ekadashis observed the same way?
While the core principles of fasting and devotion to Vishnu remain, each Ekadashi has a unique name, associated deity form, and specific spiritual benefits detailed in the Puranas. For instance, Nirjala Ekadashi involves complete abstinence from water, while Putrada Ekadashi is observed for progeny. Devotees may choose to read the specific Mahatmya (glory) of each Ekadashi to understand its unique significance.
Why This Matters for Every Hindu
The disciplined observance of Ekadashi is more than an ancient tradition; it is a vital practice for maintaining spiritual health in the modern age. It acts as a powerful reminder of our eternal connection to Bhagavan Shri Vishnu, fostering detachment from material comforts and cultivating unwavering devotion. By meticulously following the Ekadashi Vrat, devotees purify their karma, gain mental clarity, and draw closer to the divine grace that grants liberation.
In an era of increasing distraction and spiritual forgetfulness, understanding and adhering to the Ekadashi calendar provides a structured path for spiritual growth. It strengthens individual faith, fortifies familial bonds through shared spiritual practice, and contributes to the preservation of Sanatan Dharma’s timeless wisdom for future generations. For more insights into such profound practices, visit Hindutva.online.
