Ekadashi 2026: All Dates, Significance and Fasting Rules
Ekadashi — the 11th lunar day (tithi) — occurs twice every month and is considered the most spiritually potent day for fasting, devotion, and purification in the Vaishnava tradition. Observing Ekadashi is said to cleanse accumulated karma and bring one closer to moksha.
Why Ekadashi is Sacred
According to the Padma Purana, Lord Vishnu himself resides in the stomach on Ekadashi — making it the ideal day to fast and purify the digestive system. The Ekadashi Mahatmya chapters describe the spiritual merit of each Ekadashi as equivalent to performing major yagnas. Fasting on all 24 Ekadashis in a year is considered one of the most powerful spiritual disciplines.
Key Ekadashi Dates 2026
- ✓ Pausha Putrada Ekadashi: January 10, 2026
- ✓ Shattila Ekadashi: January 25, 2026
- ✓ Jaya Ekadashi: February 9, 2026
- ✓ Vijaya Ekadashi: February 23, 2026
- ✓ Amalaki Ekadashi: March 11, 2026
- ✓ Papamochani Ekadashi: March 25, 2026
- ✓ Kamada Ekadashi: April 9, 2026
- ✓ Varuthini Ekadashi: April 24, 2026
- ✓ Mohini Ekadashi: May 9, 2026
- ✓ Apara Ekadashi: May 23, 2026
- ✓ Nirjala Ekadashi: June 7, 2026 — the most austere
- ✓ Yogini Ekadashi: June 21, 2026
Correct Fasting Rules for Ekadashi
- ✓ Begin fast from sunset on Dashami (10th day) — avoid grains and beans from evening
- ✓ On Ekadashi: complete fast or consume only fruits, milk, nuts, and water
- ✓ Spend the day in prayer, kirtan, reading scriptures, and japa of Vishnu mantras
- ✓ Break the fast (parana) on Dwadashi (12th day) morning after sunrise
- ✗ Strictly avoid rice, wheat, lentils, and all grains on Ekadashi
- ✗ Do not sleep during the day on Ekadashi — it is inauspicious and negates the merit
- ✗ Avoid onion, garlic, and non-vegetarian food on both Dashami and Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi — The Most Powerful Fast
Nirjala Ekadashi (June 7, 2026) is the only Ekadashi where even water is avoided. According to the Mahabharata, Bhima observed this single Ekadashi in place of all 24 Ekadashis — and received the equivalent merit. It is the most physically demanding and spiritually powerful Ekadashi of the year.
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