1. What is Ekadashi?

Ekadashi is the eleventh day (tithi) of the Hindu lunar calendar, occurring twice in every lunar month—once during the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) and once during the *Krishna Paksha* (waning phase of the moon). Thus, there are generally 24 Ekadashis in a year, though this number can rise to 26 when an *Adhik Maas* (extra lunar month) occurs.

Ekadashi is considered sacred to Lord Vishnu. Observing a fast, performing worship (*puja*), chanting, meditation, and charity hold special significance on this day. Many devotees abstain from consuming grains, opting instead for a diet of fruits and milk (*falahar*), while worshipping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

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2. Religious Significance of the Ekadashi Fast

In Sanatan Dharma, the Ekadashi fast is regarded as one of the most sacred observances. According to religious belief, fasting on this day purifies the mind, body, and soul. It invokes the grace of Lord Vishnu and paves the way for happiness, peace, and prosperity in life.

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3. Rituals for Ekadashi Worship

• Wake up during the *Brahma Muhurta* (early morning hours).
• Bathe and wear clean clothes.
• Clean the place of worship.
• Install an idol or picture of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
• Offer a lamp (*diya*), incense, flowers, and Tulsi leaves.
• Chant the *Vishnu Sahasranama* or the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya."
• Recite the Ekadashi *Vrat Katha* (the story associated with the fast).
• Perform *Aarti* and distribute *Prasad* (sanctified food offering).

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4. Rules for the Ekadashi Fast

• Consume *Sattvic* food (pure, light, and wholesome food).
• Do not consume rice or grains.
• Refrain from anger, lying, and negative thoughts.
• Observe *Brahmacharya* (celibacy/continence).
• Engage in charity and service as much as possible.
• Spend the night singing devotional songs (*bhajan-kirtan*) and remembering the Lord.

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5 What to eat during Ekadashi?

✔ Fruits

✔ Milk

✔ Curd (Yogurt)

✔ Fox nuts (Makhana)

✔ Sago (Sabudana)

✔ Water chestnut flour (Singhara atta)

✔ Buckwheat flour (Kuttu atta)

✔ Rock salt (Sendha namak)

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6. What should not be eaten?

✘ Rice

✘ Wheat

✘ Pulses/Lentils (Dal)

✘ Red lentils (Masoor)

✘ Regular salt

✘ Non-vegetarian food

✘ Alcohol

✘ Onion and garlic

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7. When to break the fast (Paran)?

The Ekadashi fast is broken (Paran) during the Dwadashi Tithi within the prescribed time. The exact time for breaking the fast may vary according to the almanac (Panchang), so please check the date and time for your specific location.

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8. Benefits of the Ekadashi fast

• Mental peace
• Spiritual growth
• Blessings of Lord Vishnu
• Positive energy
• Development of self-control
• Sattvic lifestyle

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9.

Major Ekadashis of the Year

• Putrada Ekadashi
• Shattila Ekadashi
• Jaya Ekadashi
• Vijaya Ekadashi
• Amalaki Ekadashi
• Papamochani Ekadashi
• Kamada Ekadashi
• Mohini Ekadashi
• Nirjala Ekadashi
• Yogini Ekadashi
• Devshayani Ekadashi
• Kamika Ekadashi
• Putrada Ekadashi (Shravan)
• Aja Ekadashi
• Parivartini Ekadashi
• Indira Ekadashi
• Papankusha Ekadashi
• Rama Ekadashi
• Devutthana Ekadashi
• Utpanna Ekadashi
• Mokshada Ekadashi
• Saphala Ekadashi

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FAQ Section

❓ What is Ekadashi?

Ekadashi is the eleventh day of the Hindu lunar calendar and is considered dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

❓ How many Ekadashis are there in a month?

There are two Ekadashis in every lunar month—one during Krishna Paksha (waning phase) and one during Shukla Paksha (waxing phase).

❓ Can one eat rice on Ekadashi?

No. According to traditional belief, rice and other grains are not consumed on the day of Ekadashi.

❓ When is the Ekadashi fast broken (Paran)?

The fast is broken (Paran) on the Dwadashi tithi (twelfth day) during the auspicious time specified by the almanac (Panchang).

❓ Is it mandatory to observe a fruit-only diet (Phalahar)?

The method of fasting depends on an individual's traditions, health, and capacity.

Many devotees observe a diet of fruits and specific permitted foods (*phalahar*), while others consume only water or milk.

❓ Can women observe the Ekadashi fast?

Yes, women too can observe the Ekadashi fast in accordance with their traditions and health.

❓ Is the Ekadashi fast mandatory for everyone?

No. It is a matter of devotion and personal faith. In cases involving health issues, prioritize medical advice.

❓ Where can I find the date of the next Ekadashi?

The date, start time, end time, and *Paran* (breaking the fast) time for the next Ekadashi are updated daily in the live information section at the top of this page.