Ekadashi
Ekadashi is a significant day observed in Hinduism, which observed on the 11th day of both the waxing (Shukla Paksha) and waning (Krishna Paksha) phases of the lunar month in the Indian Hindu calendar. It is considered an auspicious day for fasting, meditation, and devotion to Lord Vishnu. Ekadashi is believed to be a time for spiritual purification and seeking divine blessings.
The term “Ekadashi” is derived from the Sanskrit words “eka,” meaning “eleven,” and “dashi,” meaning “the tenth day.” Since the Hindu calendar Paksha system is based on the lunar cycle, each month has two Ekadashi days, one during the waxing phase and another during the waning phase.
Hindu Vikram Samvat Calendar starts with Chaitra Shukla Paksha (Waxing phase of Moon)
Each Ekadashi holds its significance and is associated with particular rituals, prayers, and observances. Devotees usually fast on Ekadashi days, abstaining from grains and cereals. Instead, they consume fruits, tubers, nuts, milk products, and other Ekadashi-friendly foods such as buck wheat.
It’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashi may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
There are 24 Ekadashi dates in a Hindu lunar year, and each Ekadashi has a specific name associated with it. These names are based on various legends, deities, or natural phenomena. Here are the names of the 24 Ekadashi days:
Name of Ekadashi Waxing phase of moon (Shukla Paksha)/waning phase of Moon (Krishna Paksha)
- Kamada Ekadashi Chaitra Shukla Paksha
- Varuthini Ekadashi Vaishakh Krishna Paksha
- Mohini Ekadashi Vaishakh Shukla
- Apara Ekadashi Jyeshtha Krisna
- Nirjala Ekadashi Jyeshtha Shukla
- Yogini Ekadashi Ashadh Krishna
- Devshayani Ekadashi Ashadha shukla
- Kamika Ekadashi Shravana Krishna
- Kamala / Padmini Ekadashi Shravana Shukla
- Aja Ekadashi Bhadrapada Krishna
- Parsva/ Parivartani Ekadashi Bhadrapada Shukla
- Indira Ekadashi Ashvin Krishna
- Papankusha Ekadashi Ashvin Shukla Paksha
- Rama Ekadashi Kartik Krishna Paksha
- Haribodhini Ekadashi Kartik Shukla
- Utpanna Ekadashi Margashirsha Krishna
- Mokshada Margashirsha Shukla
- Saphala Pausha Krishna
- Pausha Putrada Ekadashi Pausha Shukla
- Shattila Ekadashi Magha Krishna
- Jaya Ekadashi Magha Shukla
- Vijaya Ekadashi Phalguna Krishna
- Amalaki Ekadashi Phalguna Shukla
- Papmochani/ Vaishnva Ekadashi Chaita Krishna paksha
Month wise details of Ekadashi
Chaitra Month Ekadashi
In the Hindu lunar calendar, Chaitra is the first month of the year and typically falls in March or April in the Gregorian calendar. Chaitra Ekadashi refers to the Ekadashi observed during the Chaitra month.
Chaitra Ekadashi are Kamada Ekadashi and Vaishnava or Papmochani Ekadashi.
Kamada Ekadashi
Kamada Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Chaitra month. “Kamada” means “fulfiller of desires.” Devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion can fulfil their desires and remove obstacles from their lives. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees observe fasting, perform puja (worship), recite prayers, and engage in charitable acts.
Vaishnava or Papmochani* Ekadashi
*The Chaitra Krishna paksha is last paksha in any Vikram samvat calendar while I am writing month wise details so details of this Ekadashi is here.
Vaishnava Ekadashi, also known as Papmochani Ekadashi, is observed on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Chaitra month. “Vaishnava” refers to the devotees of Lord Vishnu. This Ekadashi is believed to absolve one’s sins and grant liberation. Devotees undertake fasting, engage in prayers and bhajans, and offer their devotion to Lord Vishnu on this day.
On Chaitra Ekadashi, devotees generally observe a strict fast, abstaining from grains and cereals. They spend the day in prayer, meditation, and reading religious texts. Some devotees may visit temples and participate in special rituals and ceremonies dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Offerings of fruits, flowers, incense, and lamps are made to seek the blessings of the deity.
Chaitra Ekadashi holds cultural and regional variations, and the specific traditions and practices associated with this day may differ across different parts of India and among various Hindu communities. The observance of Chaitra Ekadashi is considered a way to start the new year on a spiritually auspicious note and seek divine grace for the coming months.
Vaishakh Month Ekadashi
Vaishakh, also known as Vaisakha, is the second month of the Hindu lunar calendar and usually falls in April or May in the Gregorian calendar. Vaishakh Ekadashi refers to the Ekadashi observed during the Vaishakh month.
Similar to Chaitra Ekadashi, the specific Ekadashi observed in the Vaishakh month may vary depending on regional and cultural traditions. Two well-known Vaishakh Ekadashis are Mohini Ekadashi and Varuthini Ekadashi.
Varuthini Ekadashi
Varuthini Ekadashi, also known as Baruthani Ekadashi or Bhadrakali Ekadashi, is observed on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Vaishakh month. It is considered an important Ekadashi for spiritual upliftment and purification. Devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi with sincerity and adherence to dharma (righteousness) can bestow blessings, remove sins, and bring overall well-being. Fasting, prayer, meditation, and acts of charity are common practices on Varuthini Ekadashi.
Mohini Ekadashi
Mohini Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Vaishakh month. This Ekadashi is associated with Lord Vishnu and celebrates the divine form of Mohini, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi with devotion can grant blessings, protect against evil forces, and bring spiritual growth. Devotees fast, engage in prayers, recite mantras, and perform acts of charity on this day.
On Vaishakh Ekadashi, devotees observe fasting as a form of penance and devotion. They abstain from consuming grains and cereals and opt for a sattvic (pure) diet. Devotees visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, perform puja (worship), offer prayers, and participate in religious rituals. Offering of flowers, fruits, incense, and lamps is made to seek the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Vaishakh Ekadashi is considered an auspicious period for spiritual growth and seeking divine grace. The specific traditions, customs, and practices associated with this day may vary across different regions and among different Hindu communities. It is a time for reflection, devotion, and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu for overall well-being and spiritual progress.
Jyeshtha Month Ekadashi
Jeshtha, is the third month of the Hindu lunar calendar and typically falls in May or June in the Gregorian calendar. Jyeshtha Ekadashi refers to the Ekadashi observed during the Jyeshtha month.
The specific Ekadashi observed in the Jyeshtha month may vary based on regional and cultural traditions. One prominent Jyeshtha Ekadashi is Nirjala Ekadashi.
Apara Ekadashi
Observed on 11th day of Jeshtha Krisna Pakhsha
Nirjala Ekadashi
Nirjala Ekadashi observed on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Jyeshtha month. It is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi or Pandava Ekadashi. “Nirjala” means “without water,” signifying that devotees undertake a strict fast without consuming even water throughout the day and night. This Ekadashi is considered the most austere and meritorious among all Ekadashis. It is believed that observing Nirjala Ekadashi yields the same benefits as observing all the other Ekadashis throughout the year. Devotees undertake this fast to seek blessings, purification, and spiritual merit. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and devotees engage in prayer, meditation, recitation of sacred texts, and acts of charity.
On Jyeshtha Ekadashi, devotees observe strict fasting and refrain from consuming grains, cereals, and even water in the case of Nirjala Ekadashi. The fast is observed as a means of penance and devotion. Devotees visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, offer prayers, and participate in religious ceremonies. The recitation of Vishnu Sahastranama (the thousand names of Lord Vishnu) is considered auspicious on this day.
Jyeshtha Ekadashi is an opportunity for devotees to seek spiritual upliftment, purification, and divine blessings. The specific traditions and practices associated with this Ekadashi may vary across different regions and communities within Hinduism. It is a time of deep devotion, self-discipline, and seeking the grace of Lord Vishnu for spiritual progress and well-being.
Ashadha Month Ekadashi
In the Ashadha month, there are typically two Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Ashadha month are as follows:
Yogini Ekadashi of Ashadha Krishna
Yogini Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Ashadha month. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to grant spiritual progress, forgiveness, and liberation. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayer and meditation, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day.
Devshayani Ekadashi
Also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi): Devshayani Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Ashadha month. It is also referred to as Ashadhi Ekadashi. Devotees believe that Lord Vishnu falls asleep on this day and reawakens after four months on Prabodhini Ekadashi. It marks the beginning of the Chaturmas (means four months) period, which is considered an inauspicious time for certain activities. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayers, and offer their devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Shravan Month Ekadashi
In the month of Shravan (also known as Sawan), which usually falls between July and August in the Gregorian calendar, there are four Ekadashis that hold significance. The names of the Ekadashis in the Shravan month are as follows:
Kamika Ekadashi
Kamika Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Shravan month. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day. It is believed that observing Kamika Ekadashi with devotion can help in attaining spiritual progress and overcoming sins.
Kamala / Padmini Ekadashi
Padmini Ekadashi is observed on 11th day of Shravana Shukla Paksha
Bhadrapada month
Bhadrapada (Bhado in north Indian dialect) which typically falls between August and September in the Gregorian calendar, there are two prominent Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Bhadrapada month are as follows:
Aja Ekadashi
Aja Ekadashi, also known as Annada Ekadashi, falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada month. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in acts of charity on this day. It is believed that observing Aja Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion can lead to the forgiveness of sins and bring spiritual growth.
Parsva/ Parivartani Ekadashi or Jaljhalani Ekadashi
Parsva Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Bhadrapada month. Devotees undertake fasting, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day. It is believed that observing Parsva Ekadashi can help in removing sins and attaining spiritual upliftment.
Parsva Ekadashi: Parsva Ekadashi, also known as Parivartini Ekadashi or Vamana Ekadashi. Devotees undertake fasting, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day. It is believed that observing Parsva Ekadashi can help in removing sins and attaining spiritual upliftment.
Ashwin month
Ashwin, which usually falls between September and October in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashi observed.
Indira Ekadashi
Indira Ekadashi, also known as Ashwina Krishna Ekadashi, falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Ashwin month. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day. It is believed that observing Indira Ekadashi with devotion can bring prosperity, happiness, and spiritual growth.
Papankusha Ekadashi
Papankusha Ekadashi, also known as Ashwina Shukla Ekadashi, falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Ashwin month. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in acts of charity on this day. It is believed that observing Papankusha Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion can help in the removal of sins and bring spiritual purification.
These are the commonly observed Ekadashis in the Ashwin month. However, it’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashis may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
Kartik month
Kartik, which usually falls between October and November in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Kartik month are as follows:
Rama Ekadashi
(also known as Rambha Ekadashi): Rama Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Kartik month. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Lord Rama. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in prayers and meditation on this day. It is believed that observing Rama Ekadashi with devotion can bring blessings, spiritual progress, and the fulfillment of desires.
Utthana Ekadashi (also known as Prabodhini Ekadashi or Haribodhini Ekadashi)
Utthana Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Kartik month. It marks the end of the Chaturmas period, which is considered an inauspicious time for certain activities. Utthana Ekadashi is associated with the awakening of Lord Vishnu from his four-month-long slumber. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in devotional practices to celebrate the awakening of the divine. It is believed that observing Utthana Ekadashi with devotion can bring spiritual upliftment and the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
These are the commonly observed Ekadashis in the Kartik month. However, it’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashis may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
Margashirsha month
Also known as Aghan month, which usually falls between November and December in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Margashirsha month are as follows:
Utpanna Ekadashi
also known as Utpatti Ekadashi, Utpanna Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Margashirsha month. It is associated with the birth of Lord Vishnu in his form as Ekadashi Devi. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and engage in prayers and worship on this day. It is believed that observing Utpanna Ekadashi with devotion can bring blessings, purification, and spiritual growth.
Mokshada Ekadashi (also known as Gita Jayanti)
Mokshada Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Margashirsha month. It is also celebrated as Gita Jayanti, the day when the Bhagavad Gita (the sacred scripture of Hinduism) was revealed by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Devotees observe fasting, read the Bhagavad Gita, perform rituals, and engage in devotional activities. It is considered an auspicious day for seeking spiritual knowledge, enlightenment, and liberation.
These are the commonly observed Ekadashis in the Margashirsha month. However, it’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashis may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
Pausha month
Pausha typically falls between December and January in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Pausha month are as follows:
Saphala Ekadashi
Saphala Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Pausha month. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi with devotion can bring success, prosperity, and spiritual progress. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayers, and offer their devotion to Lord Vishnu on this day.
Putrada Ekadashi
Pausha Putrada Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Pausha month. “Putrada” means “bestower of sons.” This Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it is believed that observing it with devotion can bless couples with children and fulfill their desires related to progeny. Devotees undertake fasting, perform rituals, and seek the divine grace of Lord Vishnu on this day.
Magh month
Magha, which typically falls between January and February in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Magh month are as follows:
Shattila Ekadashi
Also known as Tilda Ekadashi, Shattila Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Magh month. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi with devotion can bring purification, spiritual progress, and the blessings of Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayers, and offer their devotion to Lord Vishnu on this day.
Jaya Ekadashi
Jaya Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Magh month. It is considered an auspicious Ekadashi for seeking victory, success, and spiritual growth. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayers, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day.
These are the commonly observed Ekadashis in the Magh month. However, it’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashis may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
Phalguna month
Phalguna, which typically falls between February and March in the Gregorian calendar, there are two significant Ekadashis observed. The names of the Ekadashis in the Phalguna month are as follows:
Vijaya Ekadashi
Vijaya Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) in the Phalguna month. It is believed that observing this Ekadashi with devotion can bring victory, success, and spiritual progress. Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, engage in prayers, and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu on this day. The word “Vijaya” means “victory” in Sanskrit, and this Ekadashi is associated with seeking success and triumph in life.
Devotees observe fasting and engage in various rituals and acts of devotion on Vijaya Ekadashi. They offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu, the preserver and protector in Hindu mythology. It is believed that by observing this Ekadashi with sincerity and devotion, one can overcome obstacles, achieve victory over challenges, and attain spiritual progress.
During the fasting period, devotees abstain from consuming grains and certain food items. Some may follow a strict fast where they refrain from consuming food and water until the following day, while others may observe a partial fast, consuming only fruits, nuts, and dairy products.
The observance of Vijaya Ekadashi involves engaging in spiritual practices such as chanting prayers, reading sacred texts, and participating in satsang (spiritual discourses). It is believed that by dedicating the day to spiritual activities and seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu, one can experience success in various aspects of life, including personal growth, relationships, and endeavors.
As with other Ekadashis, the specific customs and rituals associated with Vijaya Ekadashi may vary among different regions and communities within Hinduism. However, the central theme of seeking victory, success, and spiritual growth remains constant.
Amalaki Ekadashi
Amalaki Ekadashi falls on the 11th day of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the Phalguna month. It is also known as Phalguni Krishna Ekadashi. This Ekadashi is associated with the worship of the Amalaki tree (Indian Gooseberry). Devotees observe fasting, perform rituals, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu, often using the Amalaki fruit. It is believed that observing Amalaki Ekadashi with devotion can bring spiritual purification and health benefits.
These are the commonly observed Ekadashis in the Phalguna month. However, it’s important to note that the specific names and order of Ekadashis may vary based on regional and cultural traditions within Hinduism.
The word “Amalaki” refers to the Amalaki tree, also known as the Indian Gooseberry.
During Amalaki Ekadashi, devotees observe fasting and engage in various rituals and acts of devotion. The Amalaki fruit, which is considered sacred, is often offered to Lord Vishnu as part of the worship. Devotees may consume only a restricted diet or completely abstain from food and water during the fasting period.
The Amalaki tree holds special significance in Hindu mythology and is believed to possess medicinal properties. It is associated with Lord Vishnu and is considered an embodiment of his divine energy. Worshiping the Amalaki tree and offering prayers on Amalaki Ekadashi is believed to bring spiritual purification, health, and blessings.
Devotees believe that observing Amalaki Ekadashi with devotion can lead to the forgiveness of sins, fulfillment of desires, and spiritual upliftment. It is considered an auspicious day for seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu.
Parama Ekadashi
Adhik Maas Krishna Paksha Ekadashi is named Parama Ekadashi, this Ekadashi is also called Purushottam Ekadashi or Hari Vallabha ekadashi.